PEOPLE across Wirral are being warned about the dangers of accidental fires this Pancake Day.

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service have released top tips to help if a fire starts when cooking with oil.

A very high proportion of accidental fires caused by frying or cooking with oil result in severe injuries.

Advice being issued is to make sure you have a working fire alarm and have an escape plan in the event of a fire.

Group manager at Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service Gary Oakford said: “Making pancakes can be lots of fun for the whole family and they certainly can be delicious. However, more than half of all accidental fires in the home start in the kitchen so please take care, especially when cooking with hot oil.

“Never leave the pan unattended when the heat is switched on and don’t move a pan if it is on fire. When you have finished cooking, make sure that all the appliances are turned off and the cooking area is clear.

“If a pan does catch light, turn the heat off if it is safe to do so. Never throw water on it or take any risks. Don’t tackle the fire yourself but rather get out, stay out and call 999.”

Stay safe, and make sure your smoke alarms work properly:

• Test your smoke alarms every month.

• 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.

For further advice on fire safety visit www.facebook.com/firekills or contact Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service on 0800 731 5958.