Keep safe this Valentine’s Day warning after firefighters attend 900 cooking fires in 2020

Firefighters are urging people to be safe in the kitchen this Valentine's Day

Firefighters are urging people to be safe in the kitchen and to make sure there is only love and not smoke in the air this Valentine’s Day.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) attended more than 900 residential fires caused by cooking in 2020, and with restaurants remaining closed, many couples will be celebrating their love by preparing a romantic meal this weekend.

People should keep safe by never leaving cooking unattended and ensuring their smoke alarm is working.

In total last year, GMFRS attended 902 residential fires caused by cooking, more than half of all accidental fires in the home in Greater Manchester.

GMFRS Head of Prevention, Area Manager Paul Duggan, said: “These figures show just why it is so important to take care in the kitchen as so many fires in the home start there.

“Our advice could not be simpler – never leave cooking unattended.

“I know it’s not easy right now and many couples who would usually head out to enjoy a romantic meal are not able to do, so if you are cooking instead, enjoy it but make sure you take extra care and also check your smoke alarms are working.

“We also want to remind people that alcohol and cooking don’t mix.

"If you are planning on sharing some wine, or any other alcohol, it might be best to order a romantic takeaway instead!

“We also know over the coming days many people will be celebrating Shrove Tuesday, Chinese New Year or Purim – so again, please enjoy yourselves but do so safely.”

You can find more advice on keeping safe in the kitchen here

People should also take care when using candles this Valentine’s Day, including making sure they are properly extinguished when leaving the room or going to sleep.

There's more information here

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