Preventing Kitchen Fires at Your Holiday Dinner

11/18/2020 (Permalink)

Cook safely this year and prevent common kitchen fires.

The vast majority of house fires are most likely to start right in one of the most common areas of your home; that’s right your very own kitchen. For this reason, it is important to exercise extreme caution while cooking, especially during the holiday season with all of your guests around. Luckily, there are several preventative measures you can take to ensure that you, your family, and your food stay safe this holiday season. 

Stay Alert

Negligence is the biggest contributor to these fires. Make sure when you have something on the stove or in the oven that you are paying close attention to the temperature and time. Stovetop burners pose an extreme danger in the kitchen when left unsupervised. Additionally, food left in the oven for too long is a recipe for explosion. If you have consumed any alcohol or are feeling tired, it’s probably best for you to stay out of the kitchen. 

Keep Your Preparation Area Clear

Ensuring there are no towels, potholders, packaging, or utensils near the stove is a key component to maintaining kitchen safety; this is especially important if the whole family is cooking their multiple dishes at the same time. Decluttering the counter and stovetops will make food preparation easier and safer.

Beware of Crockpots and Other Appliances

Leaving those smaller appliances plugged in at high temperatures for too long poses a risk for electrical fires. Make sure you keep these kinds of appliances on low heat and keep your eye on them throughout the day. 

What to do if a Fire Breaks Out in the Kitchen

Remain calm. Calmly instruct your guests to evacuate the house if you recognize the fire is uncontrollable. Should you decide to contain the fire yourself, ensure you still have a plan to get out. Keep a lid by the pans in case of a grease fire to smother the flames. In the case of an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed until the fire is out. Unplug any electrical appliances that catch fire and use baking soda to extinguish small flames. 

Remember SERVPRO is always here for your fire damage needs should an accident ever happen. Stay safe and have a happy holiday!