Whether you are whipping up a gourmet meal or a quick grilled cheese, cooking safety should always be the top priority in the kitchen.
From 2017 to 2019, fire departments across the United States responded to an average of 187,500 home cooking fires, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. From those reported fires, there were an estimated 165 deaths, 3,325 injuries and $444 million in property loss, the USFA reported.
There are many ways to avoid catastrophic fires in the kitchen. Here are some recommendations from the USFA:
- Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the stove or stovetop
- Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling or broiling food
- If you are simmering, baking or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking
- Always stay in the kitchen when frying on the stovetop
- Keep an eye on what you fry. If you see wisps of smoke or the oil smells, immediately turn off the burner and/or carefully remove the pan from the burner
- Heat the oil slowly to the temperature you need for frying or sautéing
- Add food gently to the pot or pan so the oil does not splatter
- Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains — away from your stovetop
- Always cook with a lid beside your pan in the event of a fire so that you can cover the pan
If you are thinking of purchasing a new stove, be sure it is installed properly and get a professional to help if necessary. Hopefully these tips will help keep you safe in the kitchen. Wondering if you have the right coverage cooking in your kitchen? Get a fast, free quote today to see if you could save on your home and auto insurance in Massachusetts.
