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Don’t Burn Dinner—Or Your Home: November Cooking Fire Safety Tips | SERVPRO of San Diego East
1/7/2025 (Permalink)
Ensure fire safety in the kitchen this November with tips from SERVPRO of San Diego East. Stay alert, prevent fires, and contact us for restoration i
November brings families together, often centered around the kitchen. With all the cooking excitement, it’s essential to remember that this month also has one of the highest rates of cooking-related fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, with an estimated 1,630 cooking-related incidents each year. The experts at SERVPRO of San Diego East are here to help® you enjoy a safe November with simple steps to avoid cooking fires and other hazards.
Many kitchen fires start with something as simple as leaving food unattended. Whether it’s a pot left boiling too long or an oil-splattering pan, a small oversight can lead to a big problem. Here are some of the top causes of cooking fires:
- Unattended cooking: More than half of cooking fires occur when someone leaves food on the stove and forgets about it.
- Grease fires: Oils can heat quickly and ignite before you know it. Never pour water on a grease fire, as it can make the flames spread.
- Oven and stove top clutter: Paper towels, oven mitts, or wooden utensils left too close to heat can ignite easily.
By staying alert and organized in the kitchen, you can significantly reduce the risk of a cooking fire. SERVPRO of San Diego East urges homeowners to remain vigilant, especially during busy holiday cooking sessions.
Making a few simple adjustments to your cooking habits can go a long way in preventing kitchen fires this season. Here are some kitchen fire safety tips:
- Never leave cooking unattended: Even if you need to leave the kitchen, turn off the stove or have someone keep an eye on it until you return.
- Keep a lid nearby: In case of a small pan fire, quickly cover the flames with a lid to smother it.
- Turn pot handles inward: This prevents accidental spills if someone brushes against a handle while passing by.
- Stay alert while cooking: Avoid alcohol, limit distractions, and make sure you’re fully awake when handling the stove.
- Be prepared: Have a fire extinguisher within reach and know how to use it.
Accidents can happen, and if a fire does start, don’t hesitate to call 911 for help. Attempt to extinguish small fires if you can do so safely, but prioritize your family’s safety. After the flames are out, remember that the damage might go beyond what meets the eye. Smoke residue and soot can linger, affecting air quality and surfaces in your home.
If your kitchen has suffered fire or smoke damage, reach out to the local experts. SERVPRO of San Diego East offers specialized cleaning and restoration services to get your kitchen back to pre-fire condition.
Don’t wait—protect your home this November with these fire safety tips. For more information on fire damage restoration, visit SERVPRO of San Diego East.