Fire and Rescue NSW typically attends an average of 1230 home fires each winter, half of which start in the kitchen and a majority of which are caused by unattended cooking.

Port Macquarie Fire and Rescue NSW new fire captain, Rob Read said kitchen fires were often the result of nearby flammable materials.

"The number of local incidents involving unattended cooking varies but there's a high percentage of fire calls related to kitchens," he said.

"Kitchen fires may start when food stuffs are left on stoves unattended or towels are left on cookers.

"It's important to keep watch, never leave food cooking unattended and make sure to turn off appliances before going out."

Mr Read said parents can keep children safe by turning pot handles inwards to avoid being knocked over, keeping matches out of reach and storing flammable items away from heat.

It's also advised to keep loose clothing, fabrics, tea towels and curtains away from the stove, not to cook under the influence of alcohol or drugs and to call triple zero in case of fire.

Click for more information about the Keep Looking When Cooking campaign.

Fire stations in Wauchope, Laurieton and Port Macquarie will be hosting their Station Open Day again this year from 10am to 2pm on Saturday, May 18.

There is expected to be live demonstrations, station tours, gift packs for kids, fire safety information and sausage sizzles.

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