SAFETY experts in Cornwall are suggesting parents use the summer holidays to teach children about cooking safely.

As part of the Fire Kills campaign, Cornwall Fire, Rescue and Community Safety Service is asking parents and carers to make any kitchen activities a chance for kids to learn.

Watch manager Katie Hoskins-Sweeney said: ‘From bake-offs to barbecues, there are lots of creative ways to teach kids about cooking fire safety this summer.

‘And, it’s absolutely vital that they know what to do if the worst should happen.

‘Half of all accidental fires in the home start in the kitchen - often because of distractions like phone calls or family. So whatever happens elsewhere in the house, always make sure you have one eye on the hob or oven.’

The Fire Kills campaign’s top tips for staying safe in the kitchen this summer are:

Take care if you need to leave the kitchen whilst cooking. Take pans off the heat or turn them down to avoid risk.

If a pan catches fire, don’t take any risks – Get Out, Stay Out, and Call 999.

Double check the hob is off when you’ve finished cooking.

Keep tea towels and cloths away from the cooker and hob.

Take care if you’re wearing loose clothing – this can easily catch fire.

Avoid leaving children in the kitchen alone when cooking.  Keep matches and saucepan handles out of their reach.

Take care with electrics - leads and appliances away from water and place grills and away from curtains and kitchen rolls.

Keep your equipment clean and in good working order.  A build-up of fat and grease can ignite a fire.

Don’t cook after drinking alcohol.

Hot oil can catch fire easily - be careful that it doesn’t overheat.

Never throw water on a chip pan fire.

In the event of a fire, have an escape plan in place.

Don’t take risks by tackling a fire. Get out, stay out and call 999.

Get at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home and test them monthly.

For more information on fire safety, please visit www.facebook.com/firekills