Cooking and Fires

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 269-963-3033

Did you know that cooking is the leading cause of home fires and fire injuries?

• Unattended cooking cause nearly 90% of all kitchen fires.
• Home fires are more likely to start in your kitchen than any other room in your home. 
• Cooking equipment was involved in 47% of home fires in 2011-2015.
• Having a working smoke alarm reduces ones chances of being injured in a fire by half.

You can help to avoid a fire starting in your kitchen by following these tips.

• Never leave cooking food unattended.
• Stay in the kitchen when you're frying, grilling or broiling food. If you need to leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn the stove off.
• Check food regularly if you're baking, boiling or roasting it and always use a timer.
• Avoid wearing loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking. 
• Keep the stove area clean or items that can catch fire such as, pot holders, towels, bags and other appliances.
• Clean cooking surfaces regularly to avoid grease buildup.
• If you're cooking and a fire starts in a pan, slide a lid over the burning pan and turn off the burner. Leave the lid in place until the pan is completely cool. Moving the pan can cause injury and spread the fire. Never pour water on a grease fire. 
• Consider purchasing a fire extinuisher to keep in your kitchen. You can contact your local fire department to take training on the proper use of an extinguisher. 
• Remember: Smoke detectors save lives! Install an alarm near your kitchen, on each level of your home, near sleeping areas and inside and outside bedrooms if you sleep with doors closed. Use the test button to check it each month and replace the batteries at least once a year. 

If you or your family find yourself a victim of a house fire. Call SERVPRO of North Calhoun County, we are available 24-hours a day for any emergency you encounter. Our techs are trained in the fire restoration. Call us at 269-963-3033 for your fire restoration needs.