Print out this information for future reference.

Chip pan fires cause more injuries from fire in your home than anything else.

Chip pan fires start when oil or fat overheats and catches fire or when oil or fat spills onto the cooker because the pan has been filled too high. They can also start when wet chips are put in hot oil making it bubble up and overflow.

Here are some simple rules to help you fry food safely:

·         Never fill the pan more than third full with fat or oil.

·         Never leave the pan alone with the heat on - not even for a few seconds.

·         Dry chips before putting them in the pan.

·         Never put the chips in the pan if the oil has started smoking. Turn off the heat and leave the oil to cool down, or else it could catch fire.

·         If your chip pan catches fire - don't panic. Don't move the pan.

·         Turn off the heat if it's safe to do so, but never lean over the pan to reach the controls.

·         NEVER throw water or use a fire extinguisher on the fire.

·         If you do decide to try and fight a chip pan fire:

·         NEVER use water, wet tea towels, pan lids or chopping boards, use only a fire blanket that has a British Standard Kitemark.

·        Call the Fire Service first.

·        Turn off the power to the chip pan.

·         Hold the blanket in front of you protecting your hands and wrists.

·         Lower it carefully over the pan ensuring you do not disturb the pan.

·         DO NOT remove or disturb the blanket for any reason.

·        Leave the house and await the arrival of the Fire Service.