Worrying increase in kitchen fires across Gateshead
Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service recently released figures showing a concerning rise in residential kitchen fire across the region, with a 25% increase recorded in Gateshead last year compared to the previous year.
A kitchen fire, particularly if fuelled by combustible substances or materials, can very quickly ignite and take hold, and if not extinguished urgently can spread, presenting a very real risk to life.
Frustratingly, many of the reported incidents were entirely preventable, and they now want to raise awareness of the simple steps we can all take to help keep our kitchens free from potential dangers and prevent any possible incidents.
- Do not place any combustible articles too close to a heat source.
- Use hot oil, chip pans, and deep fat fryers responsibly, following the manufacturers instructions.
- No not use faulty or damaged equipment in the kitchen.
- Do not leave food cooking unattended, and take extra precaution not to fall asleep.
- Keep hobs and grill pans clean and free from food debris.
- Keep your kitchen clear and free from clutter and rubbish.
Shaun Kelly, Prevention Manager at Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, said:
"With numerous appliances and heat sources, the kitchen remains the room with the most potential for being the source of a house fire.
"Our figures show a worrying trend in kitchen fires across the region with most of the occurrences being avoidable. Whenever we see an increase in fires we urgently reach out to the public and try to make people aware of the particular risks.
"Also, checking you have working smoke alarms couldn't be more important, and if you know of a vulnerable friend or family member who might benefit from one of our Safe and Well visits then please get in touch with us today"
If you live in Tyne and Wear, you may be eligible for a free Safe and Well check (opens new window), where a uniformed member of staff will visit your home to give you detailed safety advice specific to you and your home, fit smoke alarms, and issue protective equipment if necessary.
Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service recently released figures showing a concerning rise in residential kitchen fire across the region, with a 25% increase recorded in Gateshead last year compared to the previous year.
A kitchen fire, particularly if fuelled by combustible substances or materials, can very quickly ignite and take hold, and if not extinguished urgently can spread, presenting a very real risk to life.
Frustratingly, many of the reported incidents were entirely preventable, and they now want to raise awareness of the simple steps we can all take to help keep our kitchens free from potential dangers and prevent any possible incidents.
- Do not place any combustible articles too close to a heat source.
- Use hot oil, chip pans, and deep fat fryers responsibly, following the manufacturers instructions.
- No not use faulty or damaged equipment in the kitchen.
- Do not leave food cooking unattended, and take extra precaution not to fall asleep.
- Keep hobs and grill pans clean and free from food debris.
- Keep your kitchen clear and free from clutter and rubbish.
Shaun Kelly, Prevention Manager at Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, said:
"With numerous appliances and heat sources, the kitchen remains the room with the most potential for being the source of a house fire.
"Our figures show a worrying trend in kitchen fires across the region with most of the occurrences being avoidable. Whenever we see an increase in fires we urgently reach out to the public and try to make people aware of the particular risks.
"Also, checking you have working smoke alarms couldn't be more important, and if you know of a vulnerable friend or family member who might benefit from one of our Safe and Well visits then please get in touch with us today"
If you live in Tyne and Wear, you may be eligible for a free Safe and Well check (opens new window), where a uniformed member of staff will visit your home to give you detailed safety advice specific to you and your home, fit smoke alarms, and issue protective equipment if necessary.
