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 up 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.
  

If the pan does catch fire:

• Do not move it.
  
• Turn off the heat if it is safe to do so, but never lean over the pan to reach the cooker controls.
  
• Cover the pan with a damp cloth or damp tea towel and leave it to cool for at least 30 minutes - never throw water onto the fire.
  

If you are in any doubt about whether to try to put out a chip pan fire yourself then don't - leave the room, close the door and call the fire brigade.

Open Fires

These should always have a fireguard round them, but never rest clothes or place newspapers on the guard.

Portable heaters

Don't sit closer than three feet to a heater. Never put a heater near clothes or furnishings.

• Never leave a lit cigarette or pipe unattended - it may fall onto an armchair or carpet which will soon catch fire and start to give off dense smoke and fumes.
  
• Never smoke in a chair if you think you may doze off in it.
  
• Always keep matches and lighters well out of reach of children.