Football fans are being told to get a takeaway on their way home from the pub during Euro 2012 rather than risking their lives by cooking at home under the influence of alcohol.

With the competition now in full swing, North Wales Fire and Rescue Service wants to encourage fans who might be feeling hungry after a few pints to get a takeaway on their way home instead of cooking.

Gareth Griffiths, Senior Fire Safety Manager, said:  "During Euro 2012, many people will go straight from work to the pub to watch the football.

"Our research shows cooking after having one too many plays a massive part in house fires - alcohol and cooking just don't mix. It makes you uncoordinated and more likely to have a fire, and less likely to escape if you do have one.

"Many people may of course be watching the game at home with a few cans of beer - and our advice to them would be to prepare a sandwich or a meal beforehand instead of being tempted to cook after consuming alcohol. If you're not planning on having a drink but are thinking of cooking a meal while the football is on, it's important not to get distracted for even a minute while food is on the heat - cooking fires can spread incredibly quickly.

"So if you've been to the pub to watch the match, grab a takeaway on the way home instead. And if you just can't tear your eyes from penalty shoot out, turn the cooker off and take the pan off the hob."

To stay safe from fire all homes should have working smoke alarms on every floor. North Wales Fire and Rescue Service offer free home fire safety checks, where a member of the Service will visit your home, give fire safety hints and tips, help you to formulate a fire escape plan and fit new alarms - all free of charge. This service is available to all residents inNorth Wales.

To register for a free home fire safety check, please call the 24 hour free hotline on 0800 169 1234, e-mail cfs@nwales-fireservice.org.uk or visit www.nwales-fireservice.org.uk.