The best way to prevent kitchen fires is to never leave cooking unattended, says Mapleton Fire Chief Rick Richardson.
The chief’s advice comes as part of Fire Prevention Week – Oct. 6 to 12 – and its theme to “Prevent Kitchen Fires.”
Officials say unattended cooking is the leading cause of home fires and injuries in the province.
“Often when we’re called to a fire that started in the kitchen, the residents tell us that they only left the kitchen for a few minutes,” said Richardson.
“Sadly, that’s all it takes for a dangerous fire to start. Help keep our community safe by taking responsibility to prevent fires from starting in the first place.”
Important steps to prevent kitchen fires include:
– pay attention when cooking, especially if using oil or high temperatures. If leaving the room, turn off the stove;
– wear tight-fitting or rolled up sleeves when using the stove. Loose, dangling clothing can easily catch fire;
– keep a proper fitting lid near the stove. If a pot catches fire, slide the lid over the pot and turn off the stove;
– never attempt to move a burning pot;
– keep a close eye on anyone who is drinking alcohol and attempts to cook;
– keep combustible items such as cooking utensils, dishcloths, paper towels and pot holders a safe distance from the stove; and
– keep children away from the stove. Make sure electrical cords are not dangling from counter tops, as they could be pulled over by small children.
Area fire departments will be holding a number of events to raise public awareness about Fire Prevention Week and the importance of preventing kitchen fires.
For more information on area fire departments, contact:
– Mapleton, 519-638-2949 (Drayton station) or 519-638-2000 (Moorefield); or visit http://www.mapletonfirerescue.com;
– Minto, 519-343-3735 (Palmerston station); follow on Twitter @mintofiredept; or visit http://www.mintofiredept.on.ca;
– Wellington North, 519-848-3500 (Arthur station) or 519-323-1441 (Mount Forest); or visit www.wellington-north.com/residents/emergency-fire-services.aspx.
