Date: 9th February, 2018
Traditionally Shrove Tuesday marks the beginning of Lent, when many people throughout Dorset and Wiltshire will be making pancakes, before they begin a 40 day fast. When you are distracted by the image of a delicious, warm pancake topped with your favourite treat, fire safety may not be at the forefront of your mind. However, accidental fires caused by cooking with oil or frying can be devastating, with a very high proportion of such fires resulting in injuries.
Vikki Thomas, Safe and Well Manager at Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Making pancakes can be lots of fun for the whole family and they certainly can be delicious. However, over half of all accidental fires in the home start in the kitchen so please take care, especially when cooking with hot oil.”
Vikki offered the following safety tips
- When using a frying pan or cooking with hot oil, remember:
- Never leave the pan unattended when the heat is switched on
- Do NOT move the pan if it is on fire!
If the pan does catch fire:
- Don’t take any risks. Turn off the heat if it is safe to do so. Never throw water over it.
- Don’t tackle the fire yourself.
- GET OUT, STAY OUT, CALL 999.
“And when you have finished cooking, make sure that all the appliances are turned off and the cooking area is clear,” added Vikki Thomas.
A working smoke alarm will greatly increase your chances of escaping unharmed. Have an escape plan and follow it – know exactly which way you will leave your home and know where you will go.
Stay safe, and make sure your smoke alarms work properly:
- Test your smoke alarms regularly.
- Change the battery every year (unless it’s a 10 year alarm).
- Clean it out properly at least twice every year, by vacuuming the inside.
For further advice on cooking fire safety, check out the Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service website www.dwfire.org.uk/safety/safety-at-home/kitchen-safety/ or contact us for a Safe and Well check on 01722 691000.
ENDS