Nearly all of us have done it – left a pan of hot oil on the hob for too long.
In most cases we remember in time, but not always.
As these photos released today show.
Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue posted them after an incident last week which they say, “highlights just how important it is to be vigilant in the kitchen”.
Crews were called to a house fire last Tuesday in Peterborough after a resident discovered a fire in their home.
A fire service spokesperson said: “The resident was extremely lucky that they found the fire in the very early stages, as by the time crews arrived, just minutes later, smoke was already coming from the property.
“Firefighters dealt with the fire quickly to minimise damage and reduce the smoke in the property.
The spokesperson added: “The cause of this fire was unfortunately not uncommon.
“It started in the kitchen after a pan of hot oil intended for deep frying had been left un-attended.
“Due to excessive heat build-up the oil self-ignited and the flames caught hold of the kitchen units above.
“It serves as a reminder that when cooking – do not let yourself get distracted. Even a small amount of oil can catch fire and get out of control.”
The spokesperson added: “Smoke alarms are an essential life saving device that should be fitted in all homes.”
