The Fire Service is warning householders to be extra careful during Ramadan.

During this period, cooking for large groups, at unusual times combined with fatigue can play a big part in increasing the chances of having a fire break out in the home.

Tony Crook, the Prevention, Protection and Road Safety Group Manager for Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service said: “We would like to wish members of the Muslim community well during this very important event however we would also like to take the opportunity to stress the importance of remaining vigilant against fire hazards in the home. "People will be preparing food late at night and very early in the morning and as time goes on fatigue could make it easier for accidents to happen. But by taking a few simple precautions you can greatly reduce the fire risk.”

Cooking fires are the biggest cause of fires in the home, however here are some steps that you can take to help prevent fires from starting: • Smoke alarms – Are they fitted and are they working? Having a working smoke alarm can provide you and your family with a warning if a fire does break out, so you can all get out safely.

• Keep loose clothing tied back – Clothing ignites easier and quicker than you may think so keep any sleeves or scarves a safe distance from the hob. This includes keeping tea towels, cloths or electrical leads a safe distance away from hobs or ovens.

• Stay with your cooking or turn it off – If you get called away from the kitchen turn off any pans on your hob to prevent a fire starting when you’re not there.

• Avoid filling hot oil pans like karahii dishes more than 1/3 full of oil. If the oil starts to smoke, do not add food. Turn it off and allow the oil to cool.

• Try to keep your cooker, grill pans and pans free from a build-up of fat or oil as they can ignite easily.

• Avoid using oversized pots on gas stoves and don’t place foil around the burners as it can cause a build-up of carbon monoxide, which can be deadly.