Kitchen Fire Damage Prevention Tips

8/22/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Lenoir kitchens occurs too often

Hickory fire damage often occurs in the kitchen. According to the most current research by the National Fire Protection Association, 2 out of every 5 home fires start in the kitchen. Kitchen fires are also the leading causes of home-fire-related injuries. Prevent kitchen fires with the following safety tips:

Watch What You Are Cooking
Unattended cooking is the primary cause of cooking fires. Mitigate fire risks by: 
- Always remaining in the kitchen when you grill, broil, or fry
- If you exit the kitchen, even for a second or two, turn off the heat source
- Using a timer when cooking
- Checking food regularly to make sure it doesn’t overcook

Be In The Right Condition To Cook
According to the NFPA, kitchen fires can happen when you are inattentive and impaired. Therefore: 
- Avoid using your stove if you are sleepy

Remove All Cooking Surfaces
Keep flammable items such as paper towels, potholders and wooden spoons clear of the stovetop. You should clean your oven often to remove any spills and food debris. Additionally, clean stovetops frequently to remove grease and oil.

Use Your Appliances Wisely
According to Consumer Reports, kitchen appliances were the cause of over $547 million in fire damages in 2006-2008. Safeguard your home by doing the following: 
- Always read and adhere to manufacturer’s instructions/safety warnings for all appliances
- Immediately register all new appliances to receive recall information
- Always act on product recalls
- Review product safety complaints about appliances in the kitchen to evaluate potential hazards
- Store small appliances unplugged
- Inspect all the power cords you use on appliances -- replace them if frayed
- Avoid using extension cords. Directly plug appliances into outlets

Maintain Personal Safety
According to estimations by the University Of Rochester Medical Center, maintaining personal safety helps prevent injuries to both yourself and others from kitchen fires. Do the following: 
- Keep pets and children from cooking surfaces
- Tuck in long shirts before cooking
- Roll up your sleeves to prevent them from being close to cooking surfaces
- Secure long hair

Take the above precautions and prevent fire damage in your Hickory kitchen. A safer kitchen protects your family and home. If you experience a fire damage emergency, feel free to call SERVPRO of Alexander, Burke, Caldwell & Catawba Counties on (828) 396-1070. They are trusted and prominent leaders in the restoration industry. These fire damage Hickory professionals work round the clock to attend to any emergency. Whether you have cleaning or restoration needs, talk to them today.