Barbecues spark injuries, threaten homes

A Melbourne man will spend Christmas in hospital with extensive burns after one of a spate of barbecue fires.

Firefighters put out three barbecue and gas bottle related fires in the 24-hours to Monday evening.

A Doncaster man suffered extensive burns in one fire, while separate incidents in South Yarra and Avondale Heights threatened homes.

The blazes sparked warnings for users to check and maintain barbecues before use.

"The weather is predicted to stay warm, and with many families getting together to celebrate over a barbecue it's important yours is safe," MFB acting deputy chief officer Ken Brown said.