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Some advice from our fire service.
With Shrove Tuesday and the February half term rapidly approaching, many children across Dorset and Wiltshire are likely to be spending more time in the kitchen.
Whether they’re lending a helping hand or looking for a tasty snack, it’s important to make sure that they are aware of all the potential hazards in the kitchen.
Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) is encouraging parents and carers to make any kitchen activities not only fun, but a real chance for them to learn about cooking safety.
DWFRS have these top tips for staying safe in the kitchen:
• 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 - keep leads and appliances away from water and place grills and toasters 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.
• Have an escape plan in place in case of a fire.
• Don’t take risks by tackling a fire. Get out, stay out and call 999.
• Make sure you have at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home and test them monthly.
For more information on how to stay safe in the kitchen and to book a Safe and Well visit, please visit www.dwfire.org.uk