The kitchen is the heart of the home, but it’s also one of the most common places for fires to start. Cooking-related fires account for nearly half of all home fires, and many of them are caused by simple mistakes. The good news? Most kitchen fires can be prevented with a little caution and awareness. Here are the most common fire hazards in the kitchen and how to avoid them.
Leaving Cooking Unattended
One of the biggest causes of kitchen fires is walking away from the stove while food is cooking. A small flame or overheated oil can escalate into a fire in seconds.
- Stay in the kitchen when frying, boiling, or grilling food.
- If you must step away, turn off the stove or ask someone to watch it.
- Use a timer to remind yourself that something is cooking.
Overheating Oil and Grease Fires
Hot oil can ignite quickly, especially when frying. Once oil starts smoking, it’s at risk of catching fire.
- Heat oil slowly and never leave it unattended.
- Keep a lid nearby to smother flames if a fire starts.
- Never use water to put out a grease fire—it will cause the flames to spread. Instead, turn off the heat and cover the fire with a lid or baking soda.
Placing Flammable Items Near Heat Sources
Kitchen fires often start when flammable objects are too close to the stove.
- Keep dish towels, oven mitts, paper towels, and wooden utensils away from burners.
- Don’t store cooking sprays or oils near the stove.
- Make sure curtains and loose clothing don’t hang over open flames or burners.
Using Faulty or Misused Appliances
Kitchen fires aren’t just caused by stoves—small appliances like toasters, microwaves, and coffee makers can also be dangerous.
- Check power cords regularly for damage or fraying.
- Never overload outlets with multiple appliances.
- Clean crumb trays in toasters to prevent buildup that can catch fire.
- Avoid putting metal objects in the microwave.
Ignoring a Dirty Stove and Oven
Food and grease buildup on stovetops and inside ovens can ignite when exposed to heat.
- Wipe up spills immediately after cooking.
- Regularly clean burners, oven racks, and drip pans.
- Remove grease buildup from range hoods and vents.
Not Having a Fire Extinguisher Nearby
Many kitchen fires could be stopped early if a fire extinguisher is within reach.
- Keep a Class K fire extinguisher (designed for grease fires) in the kitchen.
- Make sure everyone in the home knows how to use it.
- If the fire is too large to control, get out and call 911 immediately.