Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

Grove Road, St Blazey Gate at 16/01/2007 17:28

Crews from St Austell and Fowey were called to a fire caused by an open chip pan. The fire started in the first floor flat, but the groundfloor flat below was also smoke logged when the brigade arrived. One of the flats elderly residents had to be rescued from the building by the brigade, and both elderly occupants were treated by the Ambulance services for smoke inhalation. The crews used four breathing apparatus in the search for the rescued occupant, and one carbon-dioxide extinguisher. The crews used a fan to help ventilate both properties. Smoke damage occured throughout both properties with heat damage to the kitchen in the first floor flat.

CHIP PANS CAN HURT MAIN OR KILL. PLEASE TAKE CARE.
Chip pans are safe as long as you follow some simple guidelines. Before putting food in the pan dry the food, and test the temperature of the oil by putting in a small piece of bread. If the bread crisps quickly the oil is ready.
AND REMEMBER:
Never fill a pan more than one-third full of fat or oil.
Never leave the pan unattended when the heat is switched on.
Never put the food in the pan if the oil begins to give off smoke. Turn off the heat and leave the oil to cool, otherwise it could catch fire.