IMPORTANT information is being issued to keep kids safe during the February half term in the kitchen.

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service are teaming up with the Fire Kills campaign to encourage parents and careers to make any kitchen activities a chance to learn about cooking safely.

Whether they’re lending a hand or getting a snack it is important little ones know the hazards around the kitchen.

Group manager at Merseyside Fire and Rescue service, Gary Oakford said: “There are lots of creative ways to teach kids about cooking fire safety. And 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 your smoke alarms as part of the activity. And remember, never leave a child alone with a hot hob – keep them safe by moving matches and saucepan handles out of their reach.

“Half of all accidental fires in the home start in the kitchen – often because of distractions like phone calls or family. So whatever happens elsewhere in your home, always make sure you have one eye on the hob or oven.”

Top tips being issued to stay safe in the kitchen 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 - keep leads and appliances away from water and place grills and toasters away from curtains and kitchen rolls.

• Keep your equipment clean and in good working order. A build-up of fat and grease can ignite a fire.

• Don’t cook after drinking alcohol.

• Hot oil can catch fire easily - be careful that it doesn’t overheat.

• Never throw water on a chip pan fire.

• In the event of a fire, have an escape plan in place.

• Don’t take risks by tackling a fire. Get out, stay out and call 999.

• Make sure you have at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home and test them monthly.