Half term and hot hobs could be the ingredients for fires in the kitchen as Cleveland Fire Brigade warn parents and children to take extra care.
The February break sees the first school holidays of the year and with that more families cooking together and the bigger chance of distractions and danger.
Robin Turnbull, Area Manager, Protection, Prevention and Engagement said: ”Many children will be spending more time in the kitchen, but whether they are lending a hand or simply seeking a snack, it is important to make sure that they know the hazards of a hot hob.
“So, alongside the melting, mixing, and making, why not take the chance to pass on fire safety tips. Never leave a child alone with a hot hob and help keep them safe by moving matches and saucepan handles out of their reach.
“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.”
There were 216 accidental fires in the home across Cleveland in 2022 and 45% started in the kitchen.
The appeal to take extra care in the most dangerous room in the house supports the National Fire Chiefs Council’s February safety campaign. It encourages parents and carers to make any kitchen activities a chance for kids to learn about cooking safety.
Safety tips include:
- Never leave cooking unattended
- Avoid leaving children alone in the kitchen
- Double check the hob and oven is off when you’ve finished cooking
- Keep tea towels and cloths away from the cooker and hob
- If a pan catches fire, don’t take any risks – Get Out, Stay Out, and Call 999
- Cooking and drinking alcohol don’t mix
- 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
- Make sure you have a working smoke alarm on every level of your home – and test them regularly
- In the event of a fire, have an escape plan in place
