Stay safe when cooking

Did you know that more fires and fire injuries are caused by accidents in the kitchen than anywhere else in the home?

In 2021/22, the Fire and Rescue Services reported that cooking appliances were the primary ignition source in 46% of house fires causing 10% of fire-related fatalities.


It’s important you take extra care when you’re cooking, so please remember: 
  • Never leave pans unattended
  • Don’t cook if you’re tired, have been drinking alcohol or taking medication that might make you drowsy
  • Keep the oven, hob, cooker hood and grill clean and in good working order. A build-up of fat and grease can ignite and cause a fire
  • Check toasters are clean and not placed under kitchen cabinets or close to anything that can catch fire. Regularly clear the crumb tray. Try also to use them as intended; for example, don’t use as a toastie sandwich maker
  • Switch the power off and unplug your toaster when not in use
  • Always supervise children (and pets) in the kitchen. Put matches away and keep saucepan handles out of their reach
  • Make sure saucepan handles don't stick out and get knocked off the stove
  • Take care if you’re wearing loose clothing as they can easily catch fire
  • Keep tea towels and cloths away from the cooker and hob
  • Spark devices are safer than matches or lighters to light gas cookers because they don’t have a naked flame
  • Double check the cooker is off when you’ve finished cooking

 

Kitchen stove with pan on top and cloth on fire

If a pan catches fire:

  • Don’t tackle the fire yourself
  • Don’t try to move the pan
  • Never throw water onto the pan, as this can create a fireball
  • Turn off the heat, but only if you can do so safely
  • Leave the room and close the door
  • Shout to warn others and call 999

 

If you’re deep fat frying:

  • Take extra care when cooking with hot oil as it can quickly overheat and catch fire
  • Never fill a pan more than one-third full of fat or oil
  • Make sure food is dry before putting it in hot oil
  • If the oil starts to smoke, it’s too hot. Turn off the heat and leave it to cool
  • Use an electronic deep fat fryer if possible, as they have automatic temperature controls

 

For more information on fire safety when cooking, download a free copy of our Fire Safety Information Booklet.