Have A Safe Start to 2008
Title: Have a safe start to 2008
Date: 8 January 2008
Following a recent spate of fires in the home, North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service (NYFRS) is urging people to stay fire safe throughout the new year.
NYFRS fire crews have already dealt with three incidents across the region involving chip pans and an electric blanket. Around 8,200 chip pan fires start each year in the UK, resulting in 31 deaths and nearly 3,000 injuries, so it's vital for householders to cook safely.
Station Manager Carl Boasman says: "Many injuries and deaths are caused by people trying to tackle or move a chip pan when it catches fire. Our advice is simple, if a chip pan fire starts, turn the heat off if safe to do so. Don't move the pan and never throw water on the fire. The same applies to electric blankets. Get out, stay out and call 999."
NYFRS recommends following these simple tips for a safe 2008:
- Never fill a chip pan more than one-third full of oil and if the oil starts to smoke, turn the heat off and let it cool
- Choose oven or microwave chips instead of using a chip pan.
- Buy an electric deep fryer and ditch the chip pan. They much safer to use.
- Don't fold electric blankets - store them flat or rolled up to protect the wiring.
- Never leave an electric blanket switched on all night, unless it's controlled by a thermostat.
- If your electric blanket gets wet do not switch it on until completely dry.
- Replace your electric blanket every ten years and make sure it has the British or European safety mark.
- Get out alive. Plan an escape route and make sure your family knows how to get out in event of fire.
Carl Boasman continues: "We want people to have a safe 2008. The Fire and Rescue Service offers a free Home Fire Safety Check, where staff will fit smoke alarms and give advice on fire safety. If you put it off last year, make it a New Year's resolution to get in touch with us."
For more information, visit http://www.northyorksfire.gov.uk/ or call the Fire Safety Hotline on 01609 788545
|
