Kitchen Fire Safety — Preventing the Most Common Home Fires
Did You Know?
The average house fire burns at about 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit — hot enough to melt metal. [3]
KNOW THE RISK
- In the U.S., there are over 1 million fires every year, and many of them start in the kitchen. [1]
- In less than 30 seconds, a small flame can turn into a major fire, filling the home with thick black smoke and toxic gases. [2]
- Unattended cooking is the number one cause of residential fires. Grease fires, in particular, can spread quickly and be difficult to extinguish. [1]
MITIGATE THE RISK
1. Never Leave Cooking Unattended
- Stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food. If you must leave, turn off the stove. [2]
2. Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby
- Install a Class K or multi-purpose extinguisher in the kitchen. Make sure everyone knows how to use it — remember the PASS technique: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep. [2]
3. Use Grills Safely
- Keep barbecue grills at least 10 feet away from buildings, decks, and overhangs. Never use grills inside a garage or enclosed area. [2]
FIRE SAFETY REMINDER
Kitchens are the heart of the home — and the most common place for fires to start. Stay alert while cooking, keep extinguishers handy, and practice safe habits every time you turn on the stove.