The flames soared 15-20ft into the air when crew member James Smith and firefighter James Scrase poured on just half a cupful of water.

There have been a series of kitchen fires around Bognor in the past few weeks where appliances have caught alight.

The sight of the flames leaping into the air brought home to those watching the display outdoors at the fire station's latest open day the potentially fatal results which could be caused in a domestic kitchen.

Bognor man Tim Bradbury was among the 100 or so people who lined the safety rope.

He said: "That demonstration brought home the dangers of a chip-pan fire, especially the heat from it.

"We were outside and you can only imagine what the heat would be like inside a house with its compressed space.

"You have an idea what a chip-pan fire would be like, but that heat was exceptional."

Mr Bradbury and his family are keen to attend the regular open days at the West Meads Drive building.

"The kids love seeing the demonstrations, so we try to come every time," he said.

"It brings it home to them what fires are all about and makes them think about fire safety."

Several hundred people joined them at Saturday's (August 23) open day.

Also on show was a road-traffic collision demonstration by Arundel fire station crews as well as firefighting drills, the chance to look around specialist fire appliances and learn some fire-safety advice.

Queues of children quickly formed for the ever-popular rides around Aldwick in retired fire engines.

White Watch commander Ian Paine said the aim of the day was to mix education with fun.

"We want to show people how they can make themselves safer in their homes," he said.

"The whole day will have been worthwhile if just one person goes home from the fire station having learned more about fire safety. There are still too many unnecessary fires and injuries caused by them and we want to stop them."

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