MORE than half of all accidental fires in Swindon last year started in the kitchen, it has been revealed.

Of the 130 accidental fires that broke out in homes during 2016/17, 66 were directly attributed to cooking.

As a result, Dorset & Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service has reminded residents to take care when in the kitchen.

The service's Group Manager Glyn Moody, deputy area commander for Swindon, said: “In the majority of cases, these fires were down to the occupier being distracted – for example, by other family members or answering the telephone or having consumed alcohol.

"Fortunately, there were working smoke alarms in all but ten of the homes, which gave early warning of the fires.

“We carried out Safe & Well visits at those ten properties following the incidents, which included fitting smoke alarms and advising the occupants on how best to prevent further fires in the future.”

People have been advised to keep the oven, hob and grill clean as a build-up of fat or grease can catch fire when hot. They should also keep tea towels and cloths away from the cooker and hob and make sure children are never left alone in the kitchen when you’re cooking.

Other pieces of advice include using spark devices to light gas cookers as they are safer than matches and lighters, keeping electrical leads and appliances away from water and making sure you have working smoke alarms and test them weekly.

To request a free Safe & Well visit, or to find out more information about being safe at home, visit www.dwfire.org.uk.