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10 Tips To Prevent Kitchen Fires At Home

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Every time people do home cooking, there are risks involved that will lead to a kitchen fire. Any time you turn on your one or two-burner stove or oven, a fire could start. So you have to be extra careful whenever you are in the kitchen or when using any cooking equipment. Thus, it is also important that you know how to prevent kitchen fires at home.

The National Fire Protection Association states that cooking fires are the main culprits behind home fires and fire-related injuries. Neglecting cooking and leaving it unattended stands as the top cause of kitchen fires. It is crucial to grasp the typical fire hazards and learn how to avert kitchen fires in the future.

The Fire Triangle

There are three elements required for a fire to start— oxygen (air), fuel, and heat. They are commonly referred to as the “fire triangle”. Take any of these three things away, and you won’t have a fire. All these elements are present in the kitchen. Being aware of these elements will help you prevent kitchen fires at home.

Common Causes of Kitchen Fires

In order to prevent kitchen fires at home, you must be well aware of the different causes of it.

  • Cooking food at excessively high temperatures can result in burning.
  • Flammable objects placed near open flames, such as paper towels, rags, napkins, hand towels, wooden utensils, and potholders, can contribute to fires.
  • Faulty electrical appliances pose a risk of kitchen fires, as they may overheat or generate sparks. It is advisable to have a professional inspect and maintain appliances after 10 years. Consider replacing older appliances depending on their age and condition.
  • Fires because of frying oil. Oil can cause those fires to spread quickly so follow proper safety precautions when frying food with oil. 
  •  For deep frying, use a thermostatically controlled deep fryer instead of heating oil in a pot. Whenever you use a pan, use enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. As much as possible, the food shouldn’t be submerged in oil or grease. You could try using a non-stick cooking spray instead of using oil in larger amounts.
  • A fire extinguisher is not readily available. It is necessary that every kitchen should have a fire extinguisher on hand. It should be part of the home fire safety plan.

How To Prevent Kitchen Fires at Home

Now you have learned some common causes of kitchen fires, here are several ways you can do to ensure that you can prevent kitchen fires at home.

  1. Never leave the stove unattended while cooking. Stay in the kitchen when you have to cook. If you have to leave even for a few minutes, you are still taking the risk of food burning and possible fire break out. So turn off the heat or your stove before you leave.
  2. Keep your stovetop clean and free of debris and combustible materials. Move any food wrappers, oven mitts, or other materials left near the stove to prevent fire. 
  3. Set a timer while you are preparing food and make this a habit.
  4. Make sure to clean up any splattered or spilled oil or grease. Built-up grease can lead to stovetop fires. As much as possible, don’t throw water on a grease fire because this will only worsen the condition. Slide a lid and cover to smother the fire.
  5. Never leave children unattended in the kitchen to prevent fire-related injuries. Explain to them that the kitchen is a no-play zone for kids. Moreover, teach your mature children regarding best practices while in the kitchen so that they will know how to respond in emergency situations.
  6. Keep a fire extinguisher on hand and be sure that you understand how to properly use it. A-B-C fire extinguishers are recommended for homes because they can put out three classes of fires which are: combustible materials, flammable liquids, and electrical fires
  7. Use microwave-safe containers and products. Don’t put metal in the microwave to avoid fires. Don’t store items in the oven to prevent accidental fires while preheating.
  8. Check smoke detectors regularly and keep spare batteries for safety.
  9. Avoid loose-fitting clothes as much as possible while cooking. If you put on an apron, ensure any ties or frills are kept tucked away.
  10. Don’t cook while under the influence to prevent kitchen fire-related injuries. You can be susceptible to making misjudgments while cooking under the influence.

Seek Help From a Professional Fire Restoration Company

Have you experienced kitchen fires? Worry not! After calling 911 to help you deal with fire, contact the right people who can help you solve fire and smoke damage.

Superior Restoration has highly trained professionals who can get rid of soot and fight fire damage in your home. Please call our 24/7 office today, Water Damage Ontario.

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