Simple Steps to Safeguard Your Kitchen and Prevent Accidents

May 16—MOSES LAKE — Did you know that cooking is one of the leading causes of home fires? This may surprise you since it’s something many of us do daily.

According to Travis Svilar, a battalion chief with Grant County Fire District 5, "If you look at the statistics, cooking is the leading cause of home fires." In Washington State alone, fire agencies responded to over 700 structure fires originating from kitchens last year.

One major issue? Not paying attention. The National Fire Protection Association reported that 29% of kitchen fires were due to unattended cooking equipment. This lack of oversight is linked to about half of the kitchen fire-related deaths across the country.

Svilar emphasizes the importance of vigilance. "Never, ever leave cooking unattended. Keep a lid nearby for quick smothering of small grease fires." It’s a simple tip that can make a world of difference.

Another important point is keeping your cooking area clean. Grease buildup can catch fire easily, just like flammable materials near the stove. Fire experts advise keeping these items away from hot surfaces. Svilar also warns, "Before you leave, check your stovetop. Forgetting about it can lead to disaster."

Remember, fires can spread quickly in a kitchen. "Kitchens are usually large rooms at the center of our homes. What’s next to your stove? Wood cabinets, which love to burn," he adds.

To enhance safety, here are some helpful recommendations:

• Ensure you have working smoke alarms.
• Keep a fire extinguisher accessible and know how to use it.
• Avoid loose clothing when cooking.
• Create a safety zone to keep kids and pets away from hot surfaces.
• Never put aluminum foil or metal in a microwave.
• If you sense a fire is out of control, evacuate immediately and call 911.

Taking these extra precautions can drastically reduce the risk of fire and injury. Cooking is a routine part of life, but it’s crucial to stay aware of the potential dangers associated with it.

In recent studies, experts suggest that the rise in home cooking during the pandemic has led to increased fire risks as people experiment more in the kitchen. Understanding these dangers and implementing safety measures is more important than ever.

For a deeper dive into cooking safety, check out the National Fire Protection Association.

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National Fire Protection Association, Fire Marshal, flammable materials, cooking equipment, Grant County Fire District, fire extinguisher, grease fires, kitchen fires