Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (HIWFRS) is urging the public to avoid kitchen distractions this Christmas.

The warning comes as part of their ongoing Recipe for Success COOK campaign, focusing on kitchen safety.

HIWFRS found that 50 per cent of all accidental fires in the home in recent years originated from kitchen mishaps.

These incidents often escalate during the festive season when people are preoccupied with presents, games, or drinks, making it crucial to stay vigilant while cooking.

HIWFRS’ Head of Prevention Karen Farr said: "As a Service we look carefully at the different risks our communities face across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight to ensure we play our role in raising awareness of these dangers.

"Nationally each year we know that cooking causes more accidental fires in the home than anything else and sadly our local incident rates mirror the national statistics.

"Through the Recipe for Success COOK campaign we hope to highlight the dangers of unsafe cooking habits to hopefully help prevent unnecessary incidents and fires in the home."

The Recipe for Success COOK campaign provides a straightforward guide to kitchen safety.

It encourages people to keep tea towels, cloths, and electrical leads away from heat sources, switch off ovens and hobs after use, regularly clean cooking oil and grease buildup, and always keep an eye on food while cooking.

The service also provides a free online home fire safety check that generates a personalised fire safety plan.

For further information, free recipe cards, and top tips, visit the Recipe for Success section on the HIWFRS website.