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Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service is reminding members of Manchester's Jewish community to celebrate safely during Hanukkah.

During the festival, 44 candles are lit on eight consecutive nights and traditional foods are served.

GMFRS wants people will enjoy the festival while remembering to follow the important fire safety advice below.

Group Manager Prevention Tony Lander said: "We wish everybody a safe and happy Hanukkah.

"It's important that people take care during the festival, when using candles or cooking, especially with oil, which is the custom at this time of the year."

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service advice for Hanukkah:

Make sure candles are secure in an appropriate holder and are kept out of reach of children.

This includes tea lights which should also be put onto a heat resistant surface. Keep candles away from draughts and from anything that can catch fire, including curtains or loose clothing.

If preparing food during the festival, do not leave cooking unattended. Never fill a pan more than a third full with oil.

If the oil has started smoking turn off the heat and  let the oil cool down, otherwise it may catch fire.

Dry food before placing it in the hot oil - wet food will cause the oil to bubble up and possibly spill over the edge of the pan.

If your pan catches fire:

• Turn off heat if safe to do so
• Don't move the pan or throw water on to it
• If a fire does break out follow the simple rule to get everyone out and stay out and call the Fire Service (Dial 999).
• Never go back into your home to collect belongings.

If you don't have a smoke alarm please use Hanukkah as the ideal opportunity to buy one.

They are inexpensive and will give you valuable seconds to get out of the property safely.

You can also call 0800 555 815 or visit /fire_safety_advice/home_fire_risk_assessments.aspx  for more information.

Last update: 23/12/2011 11:50:07