Cooking safety tips

More than half of accidental fires at home are started by cooking - often when cookers and grills are left unattended.

A few simple measures will keep you and your loved ones safe.

Cooking safely 

• Make sure saucepan handles don't stick out - so they don't get knocked off the stove.

• Please don’t leave items on hobs as this can cause a fire.

• Take care if you're wearing loose clothing - it can easily catch fire.

• Keep tea towels and cloths away from the cooker and hob. Make sure they are completely clear - animals can and do accidentally turn them on.

• Double check the cooker is off when you've finished cooking.

• Avoid leaving children in the kitchen alone when cooking on the hob.

• Take care if you need to leave the kitchen whilst cooking, take pans off the heat or turn them down to avoid risk.

• Keep the oven, hob and grill clean and in good working order.  A build up of fat and grease can ignite.

Air fryers - Do’s and Don’ts

DO: 

• Keep the power cords away from hot surfaces  

• Turn it off at the socket when it’s not in use. 

• Ensure it’s on a level surface where it won’t accidentally be knocked off the counter. 

• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using your air fryer. 

• Keep an eye on your air fryer when in use, if you smell burning or hear any unusual noises coming from your machine turn it off immediately and contact the manufacturer. 

• Always wait at least 30 minutes to clean it after use. 

DON’T 

• Put oil inside your air fryer.  

• Immerse your fryer in water – this can increase the risk of the device short-circuiting when it is turned back on or, in the event water residue is still in contact with the device when in use again, increase the risk of electric shock. 

• Overfill your air fryer – typically it should only be two thirds full. 

• Plug your device into an extension lead which could risk overloading the socket. 

Deep fat frying

Take care when cooking with hot oil - it sets alight easily.

• Make sure food is dry before putting it in hot oil so it doesn't splash.

• If the 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.  They can't overheat.

What to do 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 it.

• Don't tackle the fire yourself - Get Out, Stay Out, Call 999.