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Keep Looking When Cooking This Summer

Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) is urging residents to be aware of fire risks when cooking this summer as part of the National Fire Chiefs Council’s (NFCC) month-long campaign.

With the summer holidays fast approaching, many households will be busier than usual. With more going on in the home, people may become distracted while cooking, increasing the risk of fire.

The good weather also presents the opportunity to enjoy a barbecue in the sun. Make sure this is a safe and enjoyable occasion for everyone by remaining aware of fire risks throughout the day.

Group Manager, Doug Buchanan, said: “At this time of year, whether it’s a bake-off or a barbecue, we want to make sure that you stay safe while cooking. Make sure you don’t get distracted or leave cooking unattended. If something does go wrong, ensure you keep yourself safe.

“If the worst does happen and a fire breaks out, don’t take risks by tackling it yourself. Get out, stay out and call 999.”

Cooking Fire Safety Tips:

Cooking in the home:

  • Make sure pan handles don’t stick out so they can’t be reached by children or knocked off.
  • Avoid leaving children alone in the kitchen while cooking on the hob.
  • If you need to leave the kitchen while cooking, take pans off the heat or turn them down.
  • Keep tea towels and cloths and loose clothing away from the cooker.
  • Take care when cooking with hot oil – it can easily catch fire if it overheats. If the oil is smoking then it’s too hot so take it off the heat and leave to cool down.

Barbecue cooking

  • Keep the barbecue in a clear space away from fences, trees, sheds and garden waste.
  • Enjoy yourself, but don’t drink too much alcohol if you’re in charge of cooking.
  • Only use recognised fire lighters to start your barbecue, not petrol or paraffin.
  • Keep children and pets safe by keeping them away from the barbecue.
  • Dispose of hot ashes by spreading on bare soil, never in a dustbin or wheelie bin.

For more information about staying safe while cooking this summer, visit: rbfrs.co.uk/cookingsafety.