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Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) is launching a countywide cooking safety campaign from 8 June to 10 July 2026, encouraging residents to reduce the risk of fire in the home by staying focused while cooking.

Cooking remains the leading cause of accidental dwelling fires across Lancashire, with nearly half of all incidents linked to cooking-related activity. In 2025 alone, there were 262 cooking-related accidental dwelling fires, with many caused by distraction, items being left too close to heat sources, or cooking being left unattended.

The campaign aims to change everyday behaviours in the kitchen, focusing on practical steps people can take to stay safe. Research and incident data show that distractions such as phones, television or multitasking are a common factor in many fires, alongside cooking while tired or after drinking alcohol.

Throughout the campaign, LFRS will focus on simple, consistent safety messages, including staying in the kitchen while cooking, keeping hobs clear of clutter, and avoiding cooking when tired or distracted.

The campaign will particularly target those at higher risk, including people living in flats, houses in multiple occupation, sheltered accommodation, and individuals who may struggle to escape or call for help in the event of a fire.

With major sporting events taking place this summer, there is also an increased focus on late-night and distracted cooking. World Cup fixtures are expected to keep people up later than usual, increasing the likelihood of cooking being left unattended or carried out while tired.

Group Manager Mark Warwick, Community Protection Manager for Southern and Central area, said:

“Cooking is something most of us do every day, but it only takes a moment’s distraction for a fire to start. We see too many incidents where people have stepped away from the kitchen, even briefly, and that’s all it takes.

“This campaign is about helping people recognise those everyday risks and take simple steps to reduce them, whether that’s staying with their cooking, keeping their hob clear, or choosing a safer option if they’re tired or under the influence of alcohol.

“With busy routines and events like the World Cup, we understand how easy it is to get distracted, but a small change in behaviour can make a big difference to keeping you and your home safe.”

As part of the campaign, firefighters and community fire safety teams will be sharing advice during home fire safety checks, community visits and local events. Social media, partner organisations and targeted activity in higher-risk areas will also be used to reach residents across Lancashire.

Residents are encouraged to follow key safety advice:

• Stay in the kitchen while cooking

• Keep hobs and cooking areas clean and clear

• Avoid cooking if tired or after drinking alcohol

• Turn appliances off properly after use

Simple steps like these can significantly reduce the risk of a fire starting in the home.

For more information or to arrange a free home fire safety check, visit the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service website.