Fire Service gives advice to celebrate Ramadan safely
As Muslim communities prepare to celebrate a second Ramadan in the pandemic, Essex County Fire and Rescue Service would like to wish the Muslim communities of Essex ‘Ramadan Mubarak’ and offer them support and advice as they observe the holy period of Ramadan.
During Ramadan, a period of fasting is often observed during daylight hours meaning cooking takes place before sunrise and after sunset.
It is essential that people always take extra care when cooking in their home and particularly at times when they are tired.
Will Newman, Head of Prevention at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said:
“The holy period of Ramadan is of great importance to our Muslim communities and with this year being the second Ramadan in the pandemic, we understand that communities will be celebrating Ramadan differently this year due to the Covid-19 guidelines.
“We want to help you to stay safe however you celebrate Ramadan and want to remind everyone to be extra vigilant when cooking, especially if you’re feeling tired by the end of a full day of fasting.
“By following our safety advice and taking a few simple precautions, you can make sure that you and your family stay safe throughout this holy period.”
Half of all house fires start in the kitchen, please read the below advice to help you stay safe while cooking:
- Never leave cooking unattended
- Avoid wearing loose clothing while cooking, especially if you are cooking with oil
- Dry deep-fried food before putting it in hot oil and turn off the heat if the oil starts to smoke
- Never fill the pan more than one-third full of oil
- If hot oil ignites, turn off the heat under the pan (if it’s safe to do so) and allow it to cool completely and don’t move the pan
- Never throw water on hot oil- the effects can be devastating
- Don’t use a fire extinguisher on a pan of oil - the force of the extinguisher can spread the fire
- Don’t tackle the fire yourself- leave the room, close the door if it is safe to do so, get everyone out of your home safely and call 999
- Make sure you have a working smoke alarm. If there is a fire, it will give everyone in your home time to escape to safety. Test your smoke alarms regularly
- Make sure you make an escape plan for in the event of a fire and ensure everyone in the house knows what to do
- In the event of a fire in your home get out, stay out and call the fire service
For more home fire safety advice, visit: www.essex-fire.gov.uk/staysafe
Page last updated 12 April, 2021