Household fire hazards

Most household fires start in the kitchen and can be prevented by following some safe cooking principles: 

• Never leave cooking appliances unattended while they are in use.  
• Clear your cooking area, removing clutter, towels and other things that might potentially catch fire.  
• Use timers and thermostats to prevent food from overheating or burning.  
• Use cooking appliances according to the manufacturer's instructions, following guidance for temperature settings and cooking times.  
• Stay focused and alert and avoid cooking while under the influence of alcohol or medications that may impair your ability to concentrate.  
• Turn the handles of your pots and pans on the hob inward, so they aren’t accidentally knocked over. 
• Keep children and pets away from the cooking area.  
• If you have a fire from oil or grease, never attempt to extinguish it with water, as this can cause the fire to spread.  
  • Instead, turn off the heat source and, if safe to do so, leave the room and call 999.