FIREFIGHTERS are urging Dorset residents to stay safe in their kitchens this summer as part of the Fire Kills campaign.

Statistics show more than half of all accidental home fires start in the kitchen.

And with the summer holidays in full swing Dorset Fire and Rescue Service (DFRS) safety experts want parents to ensure their children understand kitchen safety.

“There are lots of creative ways to teach kids about cooking fire safety this summer,” says DFRS home safety manager Sarah Moore.

“It’s absolutely vital that they know what to do if the worst should happen.

“So alongside the melting, mixing and making, why not take the chance to pass on your fire safety knowhow? Test you smoke alarm as part of the activity.

“Remember, never leave a child alone with a hot hob and help them keep safe by moving matches and saucepan handles out of their reach.”

DFRS says kitchen fires often start due to distractions like phone calls.

“Whatever happens elsewhere in the house,” said Sarah.

“Always make sure you have one eye on the hob or oven.”

Visit dorsetfire.gov.uk for fire safety information or take a look at the campaign’s Facebook page at facebook.com/firekills.