FIRE chiefs have issued advise on dealing with kitchen fires after a man suffered facial burns while throwing water over a chip pan on fire.

The man's injuries were only minor in the incident in a home in Thomas Street, Taunton, at ten minutes past midnight this morning (Wednesday).

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service was called by the victim to reports of the fire, which he said he believed was already out.

A crew sent to the premises confirmed the blaze had been extinguished and inspected the area using a thermal imaging camera.

Firefighters administered first aid to the man before paramedics arrived and took over.

A fire service spokesman has given safety tips people should follow if they have a chip pan fire.

He said: "Turn off the heat under the pan if it is safe to do so and allow it to cool completely, but do not move the pan.

"Never throw water over it - the effects can be devastating.

"Do not use a fire extinguisher on a pan of oil as the force of the extinguisher can spread the fire.

"Do not tackle the fire yourself. Leave the room, close the door, get everyone out of your home and call 999."