Firefighters in Carlisle are targeting older people and their carers in a new campaign warning of the potential dangers of chip pans.
Figures show that nationally, 17 people on average are killed or injured each day in kitchen fires.
Tomorrow (23 October), Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service will be demonstrating the devastating power of a chip pan fire to a group of carers outside Cumbria County Council's Petteril House day centre and residential home for older people.
Members of the media are invited to the Lightfoot Drive care facilitiy at 11:00am where members of the city's White Watch will use a special demonstration unit to show the destructive force of a chip pan fire to a group of more than 20 carers.
Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service's Craig Drinkald, said: "It is very important older people understand the dangers of chip pans.
"Older people are particularly vulnerable in the event of a fire which is why tomorrow's demonstration will target carers who come into contact with Carlisle's elderly residents on a regular basis."
In the event of a chip pan fire, Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service recommend the following:
- Don't take risks. Turn off the source of heat, if this can be done without placing yourself at risk
- Have a clear escape route.
- Never think of moving the pan.
- Get everyone out of your home and call the Fire and Rescue Service.
- Under no circumstances use water on a chip pan, as this will cause it to explode into a fireball, spreading the fire and causing severe burns to anyone nearby.
- Never be tempted to cook with a chip pan after consuming alcohol.
- In the first instance never have a chip pan over a third full of oil or fat.
For more advice and to arrange a free home safety check, people can contact the Fire & Rescue Service's freephone number 0800-358-4777.
ENDS
Media enquiries to Mark Graham, Media Officer on 01228-606637