Fire Service plea to prevent Christmas cooking chaos

Surrey Fire and Rescue is reminding residents of how to prevent fires in the kitchen this Christmas.

It follows reports that during the festive period they see a 33% increase in house fires.

Denise Turner Stewart, Cabinet Member for Communities said:

“We are all aware that there is a higher risk of a fire at Christmas, with more distractions and decorations within our homes.

"The Service is prepared to respond at any time with our wonderful crews and control staff working 24/7 throughout the festive period but we’re asking you to play your part to prevent fires from happening in the first place.”

Tips to prevent Christmas cooking chaos:

1. Don’t cook under the influence of alcohol

1. Make sure saucepan handles don’t stick out, this way they won’t get knocked off the stove.

Keep tea towels and cloths away from the cooker and hob

If you need to leave the kitchen whilst cooking, take pans off the heat or turn them down

Double check your cooker is off when you’ve finished

Keep the oven, hob and grill clean and in good working order- a build-up of fat and grease can ignite a fire

If oil starts to smoke – it’s too hot. Turn off the heat and leave it to cool.

Use a thermostat controlled electric deep fat fryer as they can’t overheat.

If a pan catches fire, don’t take any risks, turn off the heat if it is safe to do so. Never throw water over burning oil.

Don’t tackle the fire yourself – get out, stay out, call 999

Councillor Turner Stewart continued:

“It’s absolutely crucial that fire safety is at the top of everyone’s Christmas list.

"People tend to cook more, possibly after the odd tipple, and this can be the recipe for disaster.

"Whilst we want you all to have a fantastic Christmas, we also want you to stay safe.”