DURING the February half-term, many children across Devon and Somerset will be competing for attention as they spend more time in the home and around the kitchen while meals are being prepared.

But whether they are lending a hand or simply seeking a snack, it is important to make sure that they know the hazards of a hot hob and that you don’t get distracted.

As part of the national fire safety campaign, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service is encouraging parents and carers to make any kitchen activities an opportunity for children to learn about cooking safety. To “Look when you Cook”.

Being distracted while cooking is a main cause of fire call-outs with more than 60 per cent of accidental dwelling fires in Devon and Somerset starting in the kitchen.

So whatever happens elsewhere in your home, always make sure you have one eye on the hob or oven.

TOP TIPS

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

• Double check the hob is off when you’ve finished cooking.

• Keep tea towels and cloths away from the cooker and hob.

• Take care if you’re wearing loose clothing – this can easily catch fire.

• Don’t leave children in the kitchen alone when you’re cooking. Keep matches and saucepan handles out of their reach to keep them safe.

• Take care with electrics - keep leads and appliances away from water and place grills and toasters away from curtains and kitchen rolls.

• Have an escape plan in place.

• If a pan catches fire, don’t take any risks – Get Out, Stay Out, and Call 999.

SMOKE ALARMS

Stay alive and stay safe with a working smoke alarm. This will greatly increase your chances of escaping from a fire unharmed. Without one you and your family are more than twice as likely to die in a fire at home.

Check that a smoke alarm is fitted on each level of your property:

• once a year – change your battery or consider buying a 10-year alarm which will not require frequent battery changes

• regularly check your alarms by pressing the button

• once a year - vacuum and wipe the smoke alarm casing to ensure dust isn’t blocking the sensor chamber (for mains wired alarms, switch off first).

To request free Home Safety advice call free on 0800 05 02 999. For any other fire safety advice, contact the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue helpline on 01392 872288 or visit the website: www.dsfire.gov.uk .