Threefold rise in chip pan fires

People are being encouraged to get rid of their chip pans

Firefighters on Teesside are targeting social clubs in a campaign warning of the potential dangers of chip pans.

Last summer these accounted for 9% of all accidental house fires in the Middlesbrough area, but during the same period in 2007 this rose to 33%.

Cleveland Fire Brigade is to carry out a series of demonstrations in social clubs around the town to encourage people to use safer alternatives.

People will also be offered free fire safety visits at their home.

Dave Turton, station manager said: "It is extremely important that people understand the dangers of chip pans before any more accidents happen which could cause damage to property, injuries or worse.

"We will be demonstrating to the members of the clubs as well as residents and passers by, how a chip pan fire can occur and the power it has which can cause devastation.

"Through this we hope that those who own a chip pan will get rid of it straight away and use a safer option."