Fire safety tips issued by Oxfordshire fire service ahead of Pancake Day

Fat and chip pan fires can be devastating, with a very high proportion of fires resulting in injuries.

Cllr Judith Heathcoat, Oxfordshire County Council’s cabinet member for community safety, said: “Making pancakes can be lots of fun for the whole family and they certainly can be delicious. However, over half of all accidental fires in the home start in the kitchen. So please take care, especially when cooking with hot oil. Avoid the need to call firefighters to your Shrove Tuesday celebration.”

Kevin Morgan, community safety manager for Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “When using a frying pan or cooking with hot oil, never leave the pan unattended when the heat is switched on.

"Don’t move the pan if it is on fire. Turn off the heat if it is safe to do so. And never throw water over it. Don’t tackle the fire yourself. Get out. Stay out. Dial 999.”

Residents are also reminded that when they have finished cooking, make sure that all appliances are turned off and the cooking area is clear.

Working smoke alarms will greatly increase chances of escaping unharmed if there is a fire. An escape plan is recommended, so everyone inside the property knows exactly which way to leave and where to go once safely outside.

Smoke alarm tips include testing them every month, changing batteries every year – unless it is a 10-year alarm – and cleaning them properly at least twice every year by vacuuming the inside.