Kitchen fire warning

Chip pan fire.

Firefighters in Rochdale have had to extinguish fires caused by burning tea towels and exploding grill pans because residents aren’t paying enough attention when cooking.

The Fire and Rescue Service in Rochdale were called out to eight accidental house fires last week all of which they say could have been avoided by taking extra care in the kitchen or being more aware of potential fire hazards in the home.

Incidents include residents putting tea towels on their cooker forgetting that it was still switched on, and also fires involving grill pans that have been left full of fat that have ignited when the grill was later switched on. Discarded cigarettes are another fire hazard that firefighters increasingly have to deal with.

As a precaution, fire-fighters are urging all Rochdale, Heywood and Middleton residents to book a free home fire risk assessment and make sure that their property is given a thorough fire safety check as it can save lives.

Community Fire Safety Officer Phil Greenwood said: “Most of the fires we have had to attend could have been easily prevented but thankfully nobody has been injured.

"Every householder should consider booking a free home fire risk assessment, where the Fire & Rescue Service or the council’s Home Improvement Agency, will carry out a free safety check on your property.

"We will explain to you your escape plans, and we will provide and fit as many 10 year battery smoke alarms as necessary. 

"To book an appointment for our free service all you need to do is telephone 0800 555 815.”