Firefighters issue warning after chip pan fire

Firefighters from Loughton and London Fire Brigade Hainault were called to a fire in the kitchen near Limes Avenue, Chigwell this afternoon. 

When crews arrived they confirmed that there was a significant fire which was out on arrival. The fire was caused by oil overheating in a chip pan which set alight.

Watch Manager Glenn Jackson said: “When the chip pan set alight the resident tried to tackle the fire themselves using a dog bed and then water. This made the fire worse which unfortunately caused the resident to suffer minor burns and smoke inhalation. 

“We cannot say it enough, please don’t try and tackle fire yourself. Never throw water on hot or burning oil, turn the heat off if it’s safe to do so and call 999. 

“Crews did a great job working with firefighters from the London Fire Brigade to provide first aid until the ambulance arrived. They also ventilated the property and replaced a smoke alarm which didn’t have any batteries in.”

When cooking with oil:

• Take care when cooking with hot oil – it sets alight easily
• Make sure food is dry before putting it in hot oil so it doesn’t splash
• If the oil starts to smoke – it’s too hot.  Turn off the heat and leave it to cool
• Use a thermostat controlled electric deep fat fryer. They can’t overheat
• If your pan catches fire, turn off the heat if it is safe to do so. Never throw water or a damp tea towel over it