GMFRS have issued a warning to never leave food unattended on the hob after being called to two kitchen fires in 45 minutes yesterday evening.

Three fire crews we called to a house in Circular Road, Prestwich after a resident was locked out of the home with food cooking on the stove at around 6.30pm.

Using a ladder crews gained access via a first-storey window and removed the pan from the heat.

The occupant was given safety advice, but no further action was needed.

Then at around 7.15pm crews were called to a chip pan fire a terraced house in Cambridge Street, Stockport.

Crews tackled the blaze and cleared the smoke before taking to nearby streets to reassure residents and distribute fire prevention information, as part of its Prevention and Protection work.

Paul Etches, GMFRS’ Head of Prevention, said: "Most house fires start in the kitchen. Please help us to keep you and your family safe in the home – never leave food cooking on a stove unattended.

"Hot food and very hot ingredients, especially fats or oils in something like a chip pan, wok or frying pan, can so easily catch fire once your back is turned.

"Supervise your cooking, keep your preparation area clear of flammable items and once your food is ready remove it from the heat as quickly as possible.

"We had two lucky escapes yesterday in Prestwich and Stockport with nobody harmed, but both stories could have been so different.

"If you would like more advice about fire safety at home then Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service is here to help – to book a free Safe and Well visit call 0800 555 815."