Fire safety for Ramadan

FIRE chiefs are urging Muslims to follow basic safety rules as they observe the holy month of Ramadan.

The celebration involves a month of fasting during daylight hours with meals eaten before sunrise and after sunset.

At this early hour in the morning or when people are coming together for a communal meal in the evening it can be very easy for a fire to start.

Chief Fire Officer Barry Dixon said: “It is ironic and tragic that during periods of celebration there is a dramatic increase in the number of fires among many communities.

“Our aim is to make people aware of their surroundings and ensure that they are actively thinking about fire safety in the home.”

Key safety messages include:-

l When cooking, never leave food unattended to answer the phone or the door as serious fires can start when your are distracted even for a few seconds.

l Dry deep-fried food before putting it in hot oil and turn off the heat if the oil starts to smoke. Never fill the pan more than one-third full of oil and never throw water over the pan.

l Your first line of defence should be a smoke alarm. If there is a fire it will give everyone in your home time to escape to safety. Test it regularly.

l Do not remove the batteries — if your smoke alarm keeps going off it might be too close to the kitchen

l Make sure you make an escape plan for in the event of a fire and ensure everyone in the house knows what to do.

l In the event of a fire in your home get out and call the fire brigade.

Anyone wanting a free home fire risk assessment can call 0800-555 815 or visit www.manchesterfire.gov.uk