Cooking Safety Tips to Prevent Home Fires
Two recent fires in the Bluffton area have been attributed to cooking; one, unfortunately, resulted in a fatality.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the leading cause of
fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking.
NFPA research found that households using electric ranges had a higher risk of cooking fires and associated losses than those of gas ranges.
What should you do if you are cooking and grease catches fire?
Smother the flames by sliding a lid over the pan and turn off the burner. Leave the lid in place until the pan has cooled. NEVER use water on a grease fire as doing so will likely cause the fire to flash and spread.
What about if something in the oven catches fire? Should I grab it out and take it outside?
The best thing to do in this situation is to keep the door of the oven closed and turn off the heat. If you try to take the item out, you may get seriously burned or spread the fire.
What are some other things I should keep in mind when I am cooking?
Stay in the kitchen while frying, boiling, grilling, or broiling any food. If you leave the kitchen for even just a minute or two, turn off the stove. Also, keep flammable items such as paper towels, oven mitts, wooden utensils, towels, or food packaging away from the stovetop.
What would you recommend for people to do if they are baking or roasting food?
Check it regularly and remain in the home while it is cooking. Set a timer so you don't forget you have something in the oven.
If you are cooking with children in the home, try to keep a 3 foot space around the stove/oven so that kids don't walk into the area where food is being prepared.
The bottom line is, if you have any doubt about fighting a small fire, GET OUT! When you leave, close the door to help contain the fire. Call 9-1-1 when you, your family and parts, are safely out of the home. Things can be replaced, people cannot.
Stephen Combs, Public Information Officer
Bluffton Township Fire District
843-757-2800
http://www.BlufftonFD.com
PIO@BlufftonFD.com
357 Fording Island Rd, Bluffton, SC 29909
WHHI Daily News Anchor: Betsy McDaniel
May 2023
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