Safety First for Summer Cooking

Safety first for summer cooking

With the summer holidays in full swing, many children across Cheshire will be spending more time in the kitchen.
But whether they're lending a hand or simply seeking a snack, it's important to make sure that they know the hazards of a hot hob.
Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service is asking parents and carers to make any kitchen activities a chance for kids to learn this summer.

Head of Prevention and Protection Keith Brooks said: "Over half of all accidental fires start in the kitchen and its vital that children know what they should do if the worst should happen. From bake-offs to barbecues, there are lots of creative ways to teach kids about cooking fire safety this summer.

"So alongside the melting, mixing and making, why not take the chance to pass on some fire safety knowhow? Test your smoke alarm as part of the activity and remember, never leave a child alone with a hot hob, and help keep them safe by moving matches and saucepan handles out of their reach."

Distraction while cooking is a main cause of fire call-outs right across the country, so whatever happens elsewhere in the house, always make sure you have one eye on the hob or oven.

Top tips for staying safe in the kitchen this summer:

• Take care if you need to leave the kitchen whilst cooking. Take pans off the heat or turn them down to avoid risk.
• If a pan catches fire, don't take any risks – Get Out, Stay Out, and Call 999.
• Double check the hob is off when you've finished cooking.
• Keep tea towels and cloths away from the cooker and hob.
• Take care if you're wearing loose clothing – this can easily catch fire.
• Avoid leaving children in the kitchen alone when cooking. Keep matches and saucepan handles out of their reach to keep them safe.
• Take care with electrics- ensure leads and appliances are away from water and keep grills away from curtains and kitchen rolls.
• Keep your equipment clean and in good working order. A build up of fat and grease can ignite a fire.
• Don't cook after drinking alcohol.
• Hot oil can catch fire easily- be careful that it doesn't overheat.
• Never throw water on a chip pan fire.
• In the event of a fire, have an escape plan in place.
• Don't take risks by tackling a fire. Get out, stay out and call 999.
• Get a smoke alarm and test it weekly.

This article is from our news archive. As a result pictures or videos originally associated with it may have been removed and some of the content may no longer be accurate or relevant.