FIREFIGHTERS visited Winsford Cross shopping centre last week to warn people about the dangers of chip pans.

Crews showed crowds of shoppers how volatile a chip pan fire can be and demonstrated why water should never be used to extinguish a fire involving hot fat.

The fire crews also gave advice on what to do in the event of a fire as well as free gifts to highlight the importance of keeping safe.

Hannah Caulfield, crew manager who organised the event, said: “The firefighters were delighted that more than 500 people witnessed the demonstrations over the course of the day and were able to see first hand the devastation that can be caused by fires involving chip pans.

“We strongly recommend that people get rid of their chip pan and use a deep fat fryer or cook chips in the oven.”