November 20, 2024 – CAL FIRE officials issue a reminder that cooking is the leading cause of home fires, with ranges or cooktops responsible for over half of cooking fire incidents, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Keep your kitchen safe with these quick tips:

In the Kitchen

• Keep children a safe distance from hot liquids and cooking surfaces.
• Clean the exhaust hood and duct over the stove regularly and wipe up spilled grease as soon as the surface of the stove is cool.
• It's wise to have a fire extinguisher near the kitchen. Keep it 10 feet away from the stove on the exit side of the kitchen.
• Don't store items on the stovetop because they could catch fire.
• Keep kitchen appliances clean and in good condition.
• When using a turkey fryer, be sure to follow instructions closely. Don't exceed the recommended oil level and only use the device outdoors!
• Be sure your stove is not located under a window where curtains are hanging.
• Ensure you have working smoke alarms installed throughout your home.

When Cooking

• Don't leave cooking unattended. If you leave the kitchen, turn the burner off.
• Always use potholders.
• Hot grease causes severe burns. Avoid using deep fat fryers around children.
• Never pour water on a grease fire; turn off the stove and cover the pan with a lid, or close the oven door.
• Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove. Someone walking by is less likely to bump them or pull them over.
• If your clothing should catch fire, immediately stop, drop and roll to smother flames.
• Scalds and burn injuries are on the increase. The highest risks are the very young and the elderly.

Remember, a few simple steps can make a big difference in preventing fires and keeping your home safe!

Source: CAL FIRE