Despite the last few summer being a wash out, the concept of eating outdoors with friends and family has increased dramatically over the last few years. The introduction of Gas barbecues has meant that the slightest break in the weather is now an opprtunity. For me and for many others though the only real way to barbecue is on a Charcoal Barbecue.

The charcoal smell from a Charcoal BBQ, and the chargrilled taste, cannot be replicated by its gas counterparts, making the traditional charcoal bbq the prefered choice of many keen would-be outdoor chefs.

Finding the best place to have your Charcoal Barbecue positioned is always a good idea. Things to look for in a good charcoal BBQ spot are:

No over hanging hazards like trees, washing lines, buildings.

Not too close to any building.

Flat level ground.

Good access or exit in case of a problem.

Somewhere that you can preferably exclude pet’s from.

When choosing the right spot for the Charcoal BBQ also consider what it will be like when all of the starving guests are in the same area. All of this will give you a idea of how much space you have available and also whether you want static charcoal BBQ or a Portable BBQ. The best way is to weigh up the pro’s and cons and work out which will best suit your needs.

The Portable BBQ is the more popular choice as they can be wheeled away and stored in a shed or garage. Unlike a static charcoal BBQ, which has to be left to bear the brunt of the unpredictable british weather.

Now you have decided which type of charcoal BBQ you want and you have chosen the area that you are going to be using it in you can start to look around at the various types and designs that are available.

Safety is also of great importance after all it is a fire that you are playing with. Some of the portable BBQ’s that are available are far too flimsy and are prone to collapsing or bending causing not just a fire hazard but also possibilities of burning. Go for a sturdy charcoal bbq with a good thick solid base. not only will it last much longer it will also be much safer.

Try and keep your feet on the ground though and buy a Charcoal BBQ that is the right size for your requirements and not too big. Remember, the bigger the Charcoal BBQ, the more charcoal you will have to put on it, which can often be very costly.

I know I have gone over it already but it is worth mentioning again safety when using a charcoal BBQ is vital. Keep children pets and other animals out of the charcoal BBQ cooking area at all times.