Cooking safely at home

Clear the clutter off your cooker. Putting items on the hob is one of the leading causes of cooking fires in Lancashire. We've attended fires involving air fryer baskets, chopping boards, and even laundry baskets left on the hob. Most house fires start in the kitchen. By following a few simple tips, you can protect yourself and your family from fire while cooking.

Simple steps to stay safe

Stay in the kitchen

  • Never leave cooking unattended – especially when using the hob, grill, oven, or air fryer.

  • If you need to step away, turn off the heat or ask someone to keep an eye on the food.

  • Avoid distractions like phone calls or the doorbell – they can lead to accidents.

Keep the hob clear

  • Cluttered hobs cause the most cooking fires we attend.

  • Keep tea towels, cloths, packaging, and paper towels away from the hob.

  • Never use the hob as a storage space.

  • Don’t leave pans unattended or let oil overheat – it can catch fire quickly.

  • Clean up grease and crumbs regularly – built-up grease can catch fire.

Be careful with hot oil

  • Use a temperature-controlled deep-fat fryer if possible.

  • Never fill a pan more than one-third full of oil.

  • If oil starts to smoke, turn off the heat and let it cool – don’t move it.

Air fryer safety tips

  • Place on a heat-resistant surface with plenty of space around it – don’t push it up against walls or cupboards.

  • Keep it clean – regularly remove crumbs and grease from the tray and inside the unit.

  • Don't overfill the basket – this can block airflow and lead to overheating.

  • Unplug after use and let it cool before cleaning or moving.

  • Avoid using foil or baking paper unless the manual says it's safe – airflow is crucial.

Pan of boiling water and cookery book resting on induction hob.
Air fryer on solid surface being used by lady.
Pan of hot oil smoking on an induction hob.
Laundry basket sat on induction hob.

Easy safety tips

  • Keep your hob clear – Avoid placing tea towels, packaging, or pans on the hob when not in use.

  • Use a timer – It’s easy to get distracted. A timer or voice assistant can remind you when food is ready.

  • Cook when alert – Avoid cooking if you’re feeling tired or taking medication that makes you drowsy.

  • Wear short sleeves – Loose clothing can catch fire. Choose fitted sleeves when cooking.

  • Use rear burners – If possible, use the back rings of the hob to reduce the chance of knocking pans over.

  • Install easy-to-use smoke alarms – Make sure alarms are working and within reach for testing.

Would you know what to do if you have a cooking fire?

  1. Stay calm. Leave the room and close the door behind you.

  2. Get out of the house.

  3. Call 999 and ask for the fire brigade.

  4. Stay outside until firefighters arrive and make it safe to reenter.

Never attempt to move a pan that’s on fire. This is how many burn victims get their injuries.

If your clothing does catch on fire, remember to Stop, Drop, and Roll. This will help extinguish the fire quickly, reducing burns.

Worried about someone’s fire safety?

If you're concerned about a loved one or neighbour who may be at risk, we’re here to help.

Visit our Home Fire Safety Check page and fill in a quick form. Based on the information you give us, we can offer tailored fire safety advice — and if they meet certain criteria, we may arrange a home visit to help keep them safe.