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World Cup could cause ‘spike in accidental cooking fires’ say Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service

Local News by Livia Gregor 11th Jun 2026  
People should not drink and cook at the same time (image via Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service)
People should not drink and cook at the same time (image via Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service)
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Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service is keen that people take the right steps to keep themselves and their families safe during the World Cup.

As a result of the tournament, there will likely be an increase in people socialising outside, cooking, hosting barbecues and driving to and from venues.

The Fire Service wants to remind locals of the fire and safety risks which come with such activities.

Head of Prevent, Protect and Partnerships, Nick Jones, said: "This is typically a time that sees more people drinking alcohol and attending large social gatherings, which brings its own set of fire safety risks.

"More than half of the incidents we attend locally are caused by cooking, and when that is paired with increased alcohol use, there is a very real possibility that we could see a spike in accidental cooking fires during the World Cup.

"It is absolutely crucial that you don't cook when you've had a drink.

"Even if you've not had much, the smallest lapse in judgement or concentration can be the difference between a fire starting, spreading and becoming a serious cause for concern.

"If you're at a gathering with people who are drinking, make sure someone who isn't drinking is in charge of the cooking, or if that isn't possible, consider ordering food or pre-preparing it instead.

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"Barbecues must also only be used by people who aren't drinking.

"They should be kept well clear of flammable objects, away from fence panels and shrubbery, and should be supervised at all times."

Staffordshire Police will be carrying out a number of patrols across local road networks to ensure those potentially drink or drug driving are caught as quickly as possible.

     

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