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Safety Advice for Pancake Day

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With the prospect of eating some delicious, warm pancakes sprinkled with lemon juice and sugar, it's easy to see why fire safety may not be at the forefront of everyone's minds! However, a high proportion of fires involving fat and chip pans result in injuries, and so it's vital to take extra care if you'll be in the kitchen on Tuesday cooking your own pancakes.

Station Commander Grant Wills from Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS) said: "Making pancakes can be lots of fun for the whole family and they certainly can be delicious. However, over 50% of all accidental fires in the home start in the kitchen so please take care, especially when cooking with hot oil."

HWFRS recommends:When using a frying pan or cooking with hot oil, remember:

  • Never leave the pan unattended when the heat is switched on
  • Ensure all appliances are turned off once you've finished cooking
  • NEVER attempt to move the pan if it should catch fire

If the pan does catch fire:

  • DO NOT TAKE RISKS. Turn off the heat only if it's safe to do so. Never throw water over the pan.
  • DO NOT tackle the fire yourself.
  • GET OUT, STAY OUT, CALL 999.

A working smoke alarm will greatly increase your chances of escaping unharmed. Have a plan and follow it - know exactly which way you will leave the house, and know where you will go.

  • Stay alive, stay safe, and make sure the alarm works properly;
  • Test your smoke alarm(s) every week
  • Change the battery every year (unless it's a 10 year alarm)
  • Clean it out properly at least twice every year, by vacuuming the inside.

For further advice on fire safety visit www.facebook.com/firekills or contact Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service on 0800 032 1155.