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Most fires do not start spontaneously, but are the result of peoples' unintentional acts or oversights. Taking a proactive approach to fire safety can do more than just save you money on your homeowner's insurance, it can also save your life.
Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and fire injuries, with stove fires dominating this problem. Surprisingly, most cooking fires are caused by peoples' behaviors, not appliance failures. The main causes of cooking fires include leaving food cooking on the stovetop unattended, leaving burners or ovens on after cooking, placing combustible materials (such as dishtowels) too close to heat sources and wearing loose-fitting sleeves near hot burners.
Stove and Oven Safety
When you're in the kitchen, it's important to remember a few simple safety facts:
- Be alert
- Avoid loose clothing
- Use a burner that is the right size for the pan
- Do not increase temperature to shorten the cooking time
- Keep the stovetop, oven and range hood free of grease and spills that can catch fire
- Keep potholders, wooden utensils and other combustibles away from hot burners
Stop Grease Fires Safely
Take extra care when frying or deep frying food or when cooking with oils, lard, butter or other grease products. If a grease fire occurs, remember to:
- Turn off the burner, if you can do so safely
- Put a lid on the pan or toss baking soda (not water) on the flames
- Leave the house and call 911 if you can't put out the fire quickly and safely
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