Bites, Burns and Barbecues – Your First Aid Guide to Summer Weekends

Long summer weekends in the UK mean garden parties, coastal getaways, camping trips, and (of course) barbecues. But with the joys of outdoor living also come a few seasonal hazards — from wasp stings to scalding grills and poorly stored food.

At Essex First Aid & Wellbeing, we believe summer safety starts with preparation. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common summer weekend injuries — and how to treat them properly using up-to-date First Aid techniques.

The Sizzle of Summer – and Its Risks

While we associate barbecues and picnics with relaxation, they also carry risks such as:

• Minor burns and scalds

• Insect bites and allergic reactions

• Food poisoning

• Cuts from sharp tools or broken glass

• Dehydration or heatstroke (especially with alcohol involved)

• Fires or flare-ups from gas or coals

Here’s how to stay safe while enjoying every sausage, spark and sunshine-filled moment.

First Aid for BBQ Burns and Scalds

Most common causes:

• Contact with hot grills or skewers

• Steam from boiling pots or oil

• Accidental knock of a kettle or barbecue lid

First Aid Steps for Burns:

1. Cool the burn immediately under cool running water for at least 20 minutes.

2. Remove tight clothing or jewellery near the burn (unless stuck).

3. Cover loosely with cling film or a sterile, non-fluffy dressing.

4. Do not use ice, butter, toothpaste or creams.

5. Seek medical help if:

   • The burn is larger than a 50p coin

   • It blisters

   • It’s on the face, hands, feet or genitals

   • It affects a child or elderly person

Tip: Always keep a burn gel dressing in your First Aid kit when barbecuing.

Food Poisoning: Avoid the Dodgy Sausage

Poorly cooked or stored food is a leading cause of summer sickness.

Culprits include:

• Undercooked chicken

• Mayonnaise-based salads left in heat

• Raw meats cross-contaminating cooked food

Symptoms of Food Poisoning:

• Nausea and vomiting

• Diarrhoea

• Abdominal pain

• Fever or chills

First Aid:

1. Encourage plenty of fluids (small sips).

2. Use oral rehydration salts if available.

3. Monitor for severe symptoms (blood in stools, high fever).

4. Seek medical help if symptoms persist for more than 48 hours or affect young children/older adults.

Prevent it by:

• Using a food thermometer (aim for 75°C in cooked meat)

• Keeping cold food cool in insulated bags

• Washing hands and surfaces regularly

Cuts, Scrapes and Splinters

Sharp barbecue tools, broken glass, and even decking can lead to minor injuries.

First Aid for Minor Cuts:

1. Wash hands and apply gloves if available.

2. Stop bleeding by applying pressure with a sterile dressing.

3. Clean wound with water or antiseptic wipe.

4. Cover with sterile plaster or dressing.

5. Watch for signs of infection.

For splinters: Use clean tweezers to remove them, then clean and cover the area.

Seek medical help if:

• The wound won’t stop bleeding

• There’s dirt or debris you can’t remove

• The wound is deep or caused by a rusty object (possible tetanus risk)

First Aid for Family BBQs and Kids

• Keep children away from hot surfaces

• Ensure a responsible adult is always monitoring the cooking area

• Store all cleaning and BBQ chemicals out of reach

• Teach older children basic First Aid — like cooling burns and treating stings

Our Paediatric First Aid courses are perfect for parents, carers, and babysitters during barbecue season.

Be BBQ-Ready This Summer with EFAW

Knowledge is the key to calm, confident action. Our First Aid training equips you with the skills to handle minor mishaps and major emergencies alike — at home, in the park, or by the grill.