Statistics show that every year more than seven thousand people get injured by fires that start in the kitchen. Nearly two-thirds of accidental home fires are started while cooking. Year after year the statistics show that the kitchen is the biggest fire hazard in a home. The good news is that the reasons for these fires are always similar and always preventable. By identifying and preventing these causes the safety of the entire home is increased greatly.
First the kitchen must be an organized and safe place to cook. Things placed on the kitchen countertop should be in good order and shouldn’t be cluttered and scattered around. Never ever trail electrical leads around, behind, or on top of other electrical devices. Also be sure that all electrical wiring is kept very far away from water to prevent sparks. Keeping plants away from electrical wires is a good idea as well since they are flammable. Cloths or towels should never be left on the microwave or stove. Also be sure that the oven and grill are kept clean since food buildup causes a very real fire danger.
While it may seem like common sense, never place anything metal in the microwave. This can cause a fire very rapidly and creates sparks a lot of the time. Some homeowners try to dry towels in the microwave but this is very dangerous and should be avoided as well. Be sure that any kind of plastic that you put in the microwave is certified as microwave safe or the melted plastic can easily cause a fire.
Be sure not to overload the electrical sockets in the kitchen, or anywhere in the home either. It is a good rule to only have one plug per socket, even if this means unplugging one appliance in order to use another. Any electrical appliance should be maintained at least one a year, especially if they are frequently used. Before leaving the kitchen all appliances should be turned off and the unnecessary ones unplugged.
When cooking it is important to keep all pan handles from sticking out otherwise anyone walking by could tip them over and off the stove. If the stove is a gas cooker then be sure to provide proper ventilation. Improper ventilation can quickly lead to a gas leak and a house fire. Keeping a smoke alarm in the kitchen is another great way of preventing fires from spreading. Be sure there is a fire extinguisher nearby and a fire blanket as well just in case. And most importantly when in the kitchen avoid distraction at all costs. Even turning away for a moment can be enough time for an accident to happen.
