OVEN chips can save people's lives - this is the message from Kent Fire and Rescue to help prevent chip pan accidents.

Every year around 8,200 chip pan fires cause an average of 31 deaths and nearly 3,000 injuries in the UK.

To coincide with National Chip Week, which runs from February 12 until February 18, Kent Fire and Rescue is urging people not to use traditional chip pans.

Instead it advises people cook oven chips, use their microwave or buy a portion from their local chip shop.

Users of traditional chip pans are being warned not to overfill the pan with oil or cook after drinking alcohol.

Head of community fire safety Stuart Skilton said: "We are urging local residents not to use traditional chip pans as they can cause fatal fires. There are other options for cooking chips so keep you and your family safe and opt for an alternative."