Cook safely in February

Firefighters urge safe cooking this February

It's all about food in February with romantic meals for Valentine's Day (14 Feb) and Shrove Tuesday/Pancake Day (February 28), so firefighters want to use these events as a reminder for people to cook safely.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging everyone to think safety first when cooking this month to ensure any culinary delights don't turn into a disaster.

Nick Evans, Head of Prevention for Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: "This month is guaranteed to have many people in the kitchen cooking with family and friends and we want to make sure you remember it for the right reasons. Just a moment's distraction could turn your kitchen fun into tragedy. Following a few simple precautions can greatly reduce the risks."

Top tips for safe cooking include

• Always clean the grill pan after using it to avoid a build-up of fat and oil in your grill pan
• Do not leave cooking unattended- a forgotten pan can lead to disaster
• If cooking oil starts to smoke, it's too hot- turn off the heat and leave it to cool
• Use a thermostat controlled electric deep fat fryer instead of a chip pan as they can't overheat
• Keep tea towels and cloths away from grills and hobs
• Don't start cooking if you have had alcohol or are really tired.

If a pan catches fire

• Don't take any risks. Turn the heat off if it is safe to do so.
• NEVER throw water over it. Don't tackle the fire yourself- Get Out, Stay Out, Call 999.

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