WITH the summer holidays fast approaching, many children across Herefordshire and Worcestershire will be spending more time in the kitchen.

So as part of the Fire Kills campaign, Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service is asking parents and carers to make any kitchen activities a chance for kids to learn this summer.

The 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 to keep them safe.

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

· 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.