Top Causes of Kitchen Fires

2/7/2023 (Permalink)

Fires in the kitchen are a problem that is often preventable. Kitchen fires often occur because of negligent cooking habits, such as leaving food unattended on the stove or overloading electrical outlets with appliances. In order to avoid these types of accidents, keep your kitchen clean and organized and follow proper safety procedures when cooking or using any type of equipment.

Cooking equipment

Use proper cooking equipment. The most common cause of kitchen fires is using inappropriate or unsafe appliances, such as a toaster oven that doesn't have an automatic shutoff switch. Don't leave cooking unattended. If you must leave your stovetop, turn off the burner(s) and keep pot handles facing away from the front edge of the range hood so they don't block airflow if there's a fire in progress. Don't use flammable liquids to start a fire, this includes gasoline and lighter fluid (which are both highly flammable). Instead, consider using matches or lighters to light candles or incense sticks safely indoors--and never smoke while doing so.

Heating equipment

Heating equipment is one of the most common causes of kitchen fires. The following are examples of heating equipment that can cause fires. Range hoods and fans. Microwave ovens, toaster ovens and coffee makers with heating elements. To prevent fires caused by these items, use approved extension cords and do not overload outlets with too many appliances.

If you suspect an electrical short, turn off power at the main breaker box before investigating further; never stick your hand into the outlet while it's live! If smoke comes out when you open up an electric panel box outdoors, don't try to fix it yourself--call 911 immediately so firefighters can ensure everyone's safety while they come out and repair whatever caused this problem in the first place."

Smoking materials

Smoking materials are a common cause of kitchen fires. Cigarettes, cigars and pipes are all considered smoking materials. Keep them out of reach from children and pets (and never leave them unattended). Never smoke near heat sources such as ovens or stoves; this includes warming drawers on refrigerators or freezers.

Kitchen fires can be caused by many things and should be prevented if possible. All fires have a cause, so it's important to know what causes them. Cooking on an open flame or stovetop without proper supervision is one of the most common causes of kitchen fires.

Appliance Maintenance

Poorly maintained or malfunctioning appliances are another major contributor to kitchen fires. Make sure that all of your appliances are working properly before using them. If you notice any electrical issues with an appliance (such as sparks), unplug it immediately until they can be repaired by a professional technician at least once every six months--or more often if necessary.

Fires in the kitchen can be caused by many things and should be prevented if possible. It is important to have working smoke detectors in your home and always be aware of what is going on around you while cooking. If you notice any strange smells or flames coming from your stovetop, immediately turn off the burner and call 911 before calling an electrician or other professional help. Give SERVPRO a call 24/7 for your fire emergency.