Fire Wise – Part 2

Over the last decade, stovetop blazes have been the second leading cause of fire-related deaths in Ontario homes.

Leaving a pot of oil on the burner for just a few minutes can easily spark a grease fire and get out of control.  

Here are some tips for preventing and putting out grease fires, courtesy of the City of Toronto.

Be constantly alert to cooking habits

• Keep pot handles turned toward the back of the stove: a small child could pull on a handle extending out at the front of a stove and be burned or scalded by the pot’s contents. Avoid loose clothing while cooking: loose clothing can brush heating elements and easily catch fire.
• Never leave food cooking unattended on the stove.
• Never store frequently used items above the stove where you may be burned reaching over the hot stove to get them.
• Remove pans of cooking fat or oils from the stove when not in use – it’s easy to accidentally turn on the wrong burner.

To help prevent kitchen fires

• Keep stove and oven clean because built-up grease and food particles are easily ignited. Keep combustibles (i.e. curtains, dish towels, plastic or wood utensils, newspapers, grocery bags) away from the stove, oven and all appliances.
• Unplug kettles, frying pans and other appliances when not in use.

In case of a grease or pan fire

• Turn off the stove. Smother flames with a pot lid or larger pan, if possible. Protect your hand with an oven mitt or wrapped dish towel.
• Use of an approved portable fire extinguisher only if you are familiar with its safe operation.
• Never throw water or use flour on a grease fire.
• In case of an oven fire, close the oven door and turn off the oven.
• Never touch or attempt to carry a flaming pot. The contents may spill, spread or burn you.
• If the fire is not brought under control immediately, get you and your family out and call 9-1-1.

For more information, visit the City of Toronto website.