Ramadan Safety Tips

Ramadan is a blessed month of fasting, prayer and time with family and friends. Lancashire Fire & Rescue Service wants everyone in our Muslim communities to be safe throughout Ramadan and Eid.

Cooking Safely

Many fires during Ramadan start in the kitchen when people are tired rushed or distracted. More than half of all house fires start in the kitchen, so take extra care when cooking, particularly with hot oil that can catch fire easily. Following these simple steps can keep your family and neighbours safe.

  • Burning pans: Never throw water on a burning pan. If a pan catches fire, turn off the heat if it is safe to do so, cover the pan with a lid, and allow it to cool.

  • Supervision: Stay in the kitchen. If you need to step away, even for a short moment, turn the hob off first.

  • Kitchen hazards: Keep gloves, tea towels, and other fabrics away from the hob and open flames.

  • Switch off appliances: Double-check that your cooker, oven, hob, and grill are switched off when you have finished cooking.

  • Keep appliances clean: Regularly clean your oven, hob, and grill. A build-up of fat or grease can ignite and cause a fire.

  • Clothing hazards: Be cautious if wearing loose clothing near flames or hot surfaces. If clothes catch fire, remember to Stop, Drop, and Roll.

For more cooking safety advice, visit our Cooking Safety page.

Lady reaching over a pan of hot oil with kitchen utensils. Her long sleeves are dangerously close to the pan.
Lady cooking in the kitchen distracted by child.


Road safety

During Ramadan and around Eid, roads can be busier especially at night and after iftar. Tiredness, excitement and hired performance cars can all increase the risk of serious collisions.

  • Get plenty of rest and eat your meals at consistent time. Remember that restlessness greatly affects your ability to concentrate and decision making.

  • Ensure that the headlights, taillights, signal lights and windscreen of your vehicle are clean and working properly.

  • Observe all traffic signs, rules, and regulations.

  • Always obey the respective speed limits.

  • Never drive if you are unwell.

For more detailed advice, visit our Road Safety page.


Electricity, candles, incense, and decorations

Electrical items, candles, incense, and decorations can add comfort and atmosphere to your home, but they also need extra care to reduce fire risk.

  • Avoid overloading sockets with multiple adaptors or high-powered appliances. If a plug or extension lead feels hot, unplug it immediately.

  • Use sturdy holders for candles, tealights, and incense. Place them on heat-resistant surfaces, well away from curtains, fabrics, and prayer mats.

  • Never leave candles burning in an empty room or while you are sleeping.

  • Switch off decorative lights at the socket before going to bed or leaving home.


Smoke alarms and escape routes

Smoke alarms are your first line of defence against fire.

  • Make sure you have one on every level of your home and test them every month.

  • If your smoke alarm doesn't make a beeping sound, it must be replaced.

  • Plan how you and your family would get out in an emergency day or night. Arrange a safe meeting place outside the home.

Learn more about smoke alarms on our Smoke Alarm Safety page.

Smoke alarm being tested in home.

If there is a fire, get out, stay out, call 999.

For more information on staying safe during Ramadan, please contact us today or visit the British Islamic Medical Association website.