Budding cooks 'advised to take care in the home'

Posted : 18-01-2008

Cooking carelessness causes more home fires than any other reason, according to Halifax Home Insurance.

The insurer has advised homeowners to take extra care and suggested the popularity of culinary novices emulating tips on cookery programmes is boosting the trend.

There are more than 84 kitchen fires a day (30,500 fires a year) in the UK, 88 per cent of which are caused by cooks misusing appliances.

Head of underwriting David Rochester said: "It's great to see TV stars getting the nation excited about cooking, but we are urging people who do take it up as a hobby to take extra care in the kitchen."

Advice included supervision of children, ensuring pan handles are safe and avoiding distractions while cooking.

In addition, cookers should be switched off properly after use and safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers and fire blankets, should be on hand.

Fair Investment Company recently advised consumers to update home insurance policies in light of any expensive gifts or equipment purchased or received over the Christmas period.

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