Kitchen Fire Prevention

Kitchen organization is the first main step you can take to preventing a fire. Don't store any flammable items on the stove, and keep decorative items at least 3 feet from the stove Obtain an ABC for your kitchen and learn how to correctly use it Make sure control knobs on ovens and other appliances are easily readable where ON/OFF can be read form accross the room Regularly check appliances for signs of overloading, wear, damage, cracking, and melting Do not overload electrical outlets, which can lead to overheating Practicing Safe Cooking Habits is another way to help prevent kitchen fires Never leave cooking food unattended Cook with the lowest effective temperature Do not store cooking fat on the stovetop where a burner could be turned on by accident Plug in appliances only when they are in use Never put metal items into a microwave, even twist ties Wear close fitting close when cooking to avoid loose clothing possibly burning Keep pot handles toward the back of the stove to prevent accidently tipping of the pot Always supervise young Children when they are in the kitchen Don't try to move a flamming pot for the possiblilty of spreading the fire Slowly remove the lids off of containers that have been heated in the Microwave.   The extreme may cause scalding If a fire does occur, never try to put it out yourself unless You have called the fire department You know exactly what is burning You have to necessary supplies (pan lid or the correct type of fire extinguisher The fire is small and not spreading Everyone else has left the area and, You have a clear path to the exit   Other tips include: Never use baking soda, water, or flour on a grease fire. Instead carfully cover the pan with a lid and turn off the stove Smother fire in conventional ovens be keeping the door closed, turning the unit off and unplugging If paper, cloth, or food (other than grease) is buring a A or ABC extinguisher can be used Extinguishers labeled C, BC, and ABC can be used on electrical fires If the fire does not go out right away, exit immediatly, and if you have not done so call the fire department Back to Fire Prevention Page