Traditionally Shrove Tuesday marks the beginning of Lent, when hundreds of people throughout the country make delicious pancakes, before they begin a 40 day fast. 

Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Service realise that fire safety may not be at the forefront of your mind, when you have the temptation of a tasty pancake, sprinkled with lemon juice and sugar in front of you. But it is important to keep an eye on the pan as well as the pancakes!

Top Tips
• Never leave any cooking or kitchen appliances unattended. It only takes a few seconds for an unattended pan or cooker to ignite and develop into a serious and life threatening fire.
• If the pan does catch fire, do not move the pan
• Never put the food in the pan if the oil begins to give off smoke

If the pan does catch fire:
• Don’t take any risks. Turn off the heat if it is safe to do so.  Never throw water over it.
• Don’t tackle the fire yourself.
• GET OUT, STAY OUT, CALL 999.

Smoke Alarms
A working smoke alarm will greatly increase your chances of escaping unharmed.  Have a plan and follow it - know exactly which way you will leave the house, and know where you will go.

Stay alive, stay safe, and make sure the alarm works properly;
• Test your smoke alarm(s) every week
• Change the battery every year (unless it's a 10 year alarm)
• Clean it out properly at least twice every year, by vacuuming the inside.

To request a Home Safety Visit call free on: 0800 73 11 822. For other
fire safety advice, contact the Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service
Helpline on: 01392 872288 or visit our website www.dsfire.gov.uk

Ends
For further information contact - Suzie Izzard – Press Officer on 01392 – 872296 email sizzard@dsfire.gov.uk