'Never use your cooker as an extension of your worktop': Leading causes of fires in Calderdale revealed
People are being urged to take extra care whilst cooking as the most common reasons for fires in Calderdale are revealed.
West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service has published the leading causes of blazes in the borough over the last five years.
The most frequent reason was arson, with 78 deliberate fires during that time.
But the rest of the top five causes were all related to cooking and the kitchen.
Inappropriate storage led to 65 blazes, cooking caused 43 fires, chip pans led to 29 fires and ovens caused 21 blazes.
The fire and rescue service says inappropriate storage is a term it uses when things are left on or around hobs, or within ovens, which then ignite.
It says the same trend is not seen in other West Yorkshire districts.
Over the same period, 95 people were injured in fires, with 52 people requiring hospital treatment.
West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service prevention coordinator Kim Colclough said: “Most cooking fires can be prevented by taking a few simple precautions and staying alert when cooking.
"Never leave cooking unattended, especially when using hot oil, and take extra care with items that could come into contact with heat or naked flames, such as loose clothing or tea towels.
“Keep your appliances clean to prevent grease build-up and make sure combustible items are kept well away from cooking appliances.
"We’re seeing a big increase in inappropriate storage fires across West Yorkshire due to people using their ovens and hobs as a place to store things.
"Hobs, grills and ovens should always be kept clear. Never use your cooker as an extension of your worktop.
“Above all, ensure you have a working smoke detector on every level of your home, a heat detector is recommended for kitchens.
"Keep appliances, such as toasters and air-fryers, well-ventilated during use.
"Remember that if a pan catches fire, never throw water on it. The best thing to do is turn off the heat if it is safe to do so, get out safely, closing door behind you as you leave and call 999.
“A few small actions can make a big difference, helping to protect your loved ones and your home."