Wiltshire Fire and Rescue launches kitchen safety campaign

The Cook with Care campaign has been introduced following concerns over a significant number of kitchen fires in 2023.

A third of the kitchen fires attended by the fire and rescue service last year occurred in the homes of those aged over 65 who were living alone.

Cooking being left unattended, items such as tea towels being left on hot cooker hobs, and metallic objects being placed in microwaves were some of the leading causes.

The campaign has been launched in response to a high number of kitchen fires (Image: DWFRS)

The fire and rescue service is aiming to reduce this figure by informing residents of the precautions they can take to prevent cooking-related incidents.

Area manager, Marc House, who is head of prevention and protection, said: “It’s vital that we do all we can to protect our communities, especially those people who are perhaps more vulnerable because of their age or where they live.

"By highlighting some of the potential dangers in the kitchen, we hope to encourage safer cooking behaviours amongst those most at risk.

"The campaign is designed to encourage everyone to take a few moments to look at ways of making the kitchen a safer place to be – both for them and for their loved ones.”

The campaign revolves around four themes - prepare, prevent, focus, and stay safe.

Prepare stresses the importance of a clear cooking area, urging residents to keep flammable items like tea towels and aprons away from cookers and hobs, and to be cautious when wearing loose clothing.

Prevent advises against leaving anything other than pots and pans on the cooker hob.

Putting metal objects in the microwave, and leaving saucepan handles sticking out are also highlighted as potential hazards.

Focus asks residents not to leave their cooking unattended and advises against cooking when tired, drowsy, or under the influence of alcohol.

Stay Safe emphasises maintaining a clean oven, hob, and grill to prevent the build-up of flammable grease.

Firefighters will be distributing leaflets and posters bearing the campaign's key messages at community locations such as pharmacies, GP surgeries, and post offices.

Adverts and social media posts will encourage families to arrange Safe & Well visits for older relatives needing extra support at home.

The service will also work with partners and housing providers to reach the most vulnerable residents, educating them on safe cooking behaviours.