Posted: Thursday 11 February 2021, 15:54
With over 50% of all accidental house fires starting in the kitchen Firefighters are asking people to take extra care and ensure Pancake Day isn’t a ‘flippin’ disaster!
Pancake Day can be great fun for all the family. It’s a time to come together and celebrate the beginning of Lent, with the added bonus of delicious pancakes with your favourite toppings, meaning fire safety may not be at the forefront of your mind.
Station Manager Steve Ratcliffe said: “Kitchen fires continue to be one of the most common types of fires our firefighters attend, yet by following some simple fire safety measures they can easily be prevented.
“When using a frying pan or cooking with hot oil, remember to never leave the pan unattended when the heat is switched on, and do NOT move the pan if it is on fire.
“If an accident happens and 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 the pan, and never tackle the fire yourself. Get out, Stay out and Call 999.”
If the worst was to happen, working smoke alarms greatly increase your chances of escaping unharmed, but you should also have an escape plan and follow it - know exactly which way you will leave your home and know where you will go. Keep your escape routes clear and know where your keys are.
Stay alive, stay safe, and make sure your smoke alarms work properly:
· Test your smoke alarms every week
· 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.