Celebrate pancake day safely with these kitchen safety tips

But with all the excitement, it’s easy to forget the fire hazards that come with cooking, especially when using hot oil and open flames.

To help you enjoy a fun and fire-safe Pancake Day, here are some essential safety tips:

1. Never leave the hob unattended

Whether you’re heating oil for frying or simply warming a pan, always stay in the kitchen while cooking. More than 50% of house fires start in the kitchen, often due to unattended cooking. If you need to step away, turn off the heat first.

2. Watch out for flammable items

Tea towels, paper towels, and even loose clothing can easily catch fire if placed too close to the hob. Keep your cooking space clear to avoid any unexpected flames.

3. Take extra care with oil

Cooking with oil can be dangerous, especially if it overheats. If your oil starts smoking, turn off the heat immediately and let it cool. In the event of a pan fire, never use water, as this can cause flames to spread rapidly. Instead, turn off the heat and cover the pan with a damp cloth or fire blanket.

4. Install a Heat Alarm in the kitchen

Smoke alarms are essential, but they can be triggered by everyday cooking fumes. That’s why we recommend a heat alarm, which detects rapid temperature increases rather than smoke—providing reliable fire protection without false alarms.

5. Keep a fire extinguisher or fire blanket nearby

Having a fire blanket or extinguisher in your kitchen is a smart safety measure. Make sure everyone in your household knows where it is and how to use it in an emergency.

For more kitchen fire safety tips, read more here.