February is home to a whole host of exciting events, from Pancake Day to Valentine’s Day and even half term for the children. Some people want to cook more for their loved ones, whether this be a pancake feast or a candlelit dinner.
No matter the occasion, it’s important to make sure that you know the hazards of a hot hob.
So, as part of the Fire Kills campaign, Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service is encouraging residents to take care in the kitchen this month and beyond.
Distraction while cooking is a main cause of fire call-outs right across the country.
Group Manager Mike Humphries said: “Half of all accidental fires in the home start in the kitchen – often because of distractions like phone calls or family. So, whatever happens elsewhere in your home, always make sure you have one eye on the hob or oven.”
To help keep yourself safe in the kitchen, follow our 10 favourite safety tips:
1. Never leave cooking unattended.
2. If you do need to leave the kitchen, turn the heat down.
3. Make sure children are supervised while in the kitchen, and keep matches and saucepan handles out of their reach to keep them safe.
4. Make sure that electrical appliances are kept away from water.
5. Don’t cook if you’ve been drinking alcohol or taking certain medication.
6. When you’re done cooking, make sure the cooker is off.
7. If a pan catches fire, turn the heat off if it is safe to do so. Never throw water over it.
8. Don’t tackle a fire yourself – get out and call 999.
9. Never throw water on a chip pan fire.
10. Take care with electrics – keep leads and appliances away from water and place grills and toasters away from curtains and kitchen rolls.
For more information on keeping safe in the home, visit our Cooking Safety page.