KEIGHLEY people observing the holy period of Ramadan are being urged to be vigilant and guard against fire risks in the home.

Fire chiefs say that with fasting being observed during daylight hours, cooking takes place before sunrise and after sunset, when tiredness can have an impact.

Chris Kirby, the West Yorkshire brigade's area manager for fire safety, said: "Ramadan is a time of great importance for Muslims but it is also a time during which everyone should be extra vigilant when cooking, especially if they're feeling fatigued by the end of a full day of fasting.

"By following safety advice and taking a few simple precautions, you can make sure you and your family stay safe throughout this holy period."

Tips include:

* Never leave cooking unattended

* Be careful when wearing loose clothing. Ensure items such as head scarves don't come into contact with a naked flame

* Take extra care when cooking with oil, as it can easily set alight

* When cooking with hot oils, do not allow the oil to fill more than one third of a pan

* If a pan is smoking excessively, turn off the heat

* Never throw water on a burning pan. Turn off the heat if safe to do so, exit the kitchen and call 999

* Ensure you have a working smoke alarm on each floor of your home