Dear Resident

Did you know that over 50% of accidental household fires start in the kitchen. There are many distractions in the home, making it easy to lose focus on what’s cooking and fires can quickly spread.

To help keep you and your loved ones save, here's what you need to know:

- Install working smoke alarms on every floor and check them regularly to make sure they beep. It's not just about your safety; it's about your family, friends and pets too

- Keep your cooking area clean, tidy, and clutter-free. Grease and fat build-up? That's a recipe for disaster

- Keep electrical cords, tea towels and clothing away from the cooking area

- Never leave pans unattended and keep an eye on the hob, especially if little ones are around

- After cooking, make sure to switch off your oven, hob, or air fryer

- Feeling tired or had a few drinks? Skip the cooking and opt for a cold snack or a takeaway instead

Now, turning our attention to the impending BBQ season (weather depending). Sarah Wilkinson, Head of Prevention, emphasised: "Barbeques can stay hot for ages, so handle them with care and don't even think about bringing them indoors or into tents, those carbon monoxide fumes linger for hours after they're out. Also, while disposable BBQs might seem convenient, they come with risks and can easily start grass and field fires which quickly spread during hot and dry conditions and can harm wildlife. Let's be mindful of our environment and opt for safer alternatives."

With the arrival of warmer weather and lighter evenings, the prospect of firing up the barbeque holds much appeal. But remember, safety first. Here are some key pointers:

- Never leave the barbeque unattended

- Make sure to place it on a flat surface away from any flammable materials

- Keep children, pets and games away from the cooking area

- Have a bucket of water or sand nearby, just in case

- Let the barbeque cool down before moving it