Before

After

Fire Damage in a Swampscott Home

Fire Damage in a Swampscott home.

Kitchen Fire Safety 101

Tips on Kitchen Fire Safety
Extra care should be taken when working in the kitchen in order to avoid the onset of a fire. Here are some safety tips:

• Wear appropriate clothing, and avoid the long, flowing sleeves and open, loose-fitting shirts that can easily come in contact with hot burners.
• Wear your long hair up and do not leave any strands hanging.
• Never take your eyes off hot oil because it can ignite in an instant. If it catches fire, immediately place a cover on the pan.
• Always unplug electrical cords from all ancillary appliances. A plug can ignite even though the equipment is turned off. Any power surge or unforeseen problem with electricity can cause a fire.
• Do not use electrical appliances near water and keep cords away from all heat sources.
• Turn pot handles inward on the hot stove so as to avoid bumping into them accidentally and spilling their contents.
• Do not place potholders, boxes, towels, cutting boards, or plastic utensils and containers near cooking areas.
• Keep the kitchen work area clean, free from grease and burnt food. If you have a self-cleaning oven, remove large debris before turning it on.
• Keep a box of baking soda on the kitchen counter while cooking as it can quickly put out a small kitchen fire if it is caught at its onset.
• Make sure all appliances are in good working condition. At the first sign of a problem, have it fixed or get rid of it.