Cooking Fires

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

Cooking brings family and friends together, provides an outlet for creativity and can be relaxing. But did you know that cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries? By following a few safety tips, you can prevent these fires.  

“Cook with Caution” 

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol do not use the stove or stove top. 
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a brief period, turn off the stove. 
• If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking. 

• Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains — away from your stove top. 

IF YOU HAVE A COOKING FIRE... 

• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire. 
• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave. 
• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out. 

• Keep a lid nearby when you are cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled. 
• For an oven fire turn off the heat and keep the door closed. 

Thanks to the National Fire Protection Agency for sharing these tips. 

If you have a fire in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Putnam County at (386) 328-8660.