Kitchen Fire Safety: Keeping Your Holidays From Going Down in Flames | SERVPRO of North and Southwest Oklahoma City

12/3/2024 (Permalink)

Keep your holiday cooking safe with SERVPRO of North and Southwest Oklahoma City's tips!

As the holiday season approaches, homes across Oklahoma City are gearing up for cozy gatherings and mouth watering feasts. Yet, it’s essential to remember that holiday cooking brings an increased risk of kitchen fires. In fact, Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, with more than double the average number of incidents happening on this day alone. SERVPRO of North and Southwest Oklahoma City is here to help keep you and your loved ones safe this season with some practical kitchen fire safety tips.

###Common Kitchen Fire Hazards During the Holidays

November’s chilly air and holiday festivities often lead us to spend more time in the kitchen. With multiple dishes cooking and loved ones in the kitchen, it’s easy to overlook potential fire hazards. Here are some of the main causes of kitchen fires during the holiday season:

1. Unattended Cooking: The leading cause of kitchen fires is leaving food unattended on the stove or in the oven. As you cook multiple dishes, make sure someone is always monitoring the stove, oven, or any other cooking appliance.

2. Grease Fires: A splatter of oil or grease can ignite quickly, especially in high-heat cooking. Keep a lid nearby to smother small grease fires, and never use water to extinguish a grease fire.

3. Cluttered Counters and Flammable Materials: Kitchen towels, oven mitts, and other flammable items can quickly catch fire if left too close to hot appliances. Clear your counters of anything flammable to keep your kitchen as safe as possible.

###Fire Prevention Tips for a Safe Holiday

Taking a few safety measures can go a long way in preventing accidents. Follow these fire prevention tips to enjoy a safe and stress-free holiday season in Oklahoma City:

1. Keep a Fire Extinguisher Handy: Every kitchen should have a fire extinguisher within reach, especially during the holidays. Make sure your family members know where it is and how to use it in case of an emergency.

2. Use a Timer and Check Food Often: When preparing multiple dishes, it’s easy to get distracted. Use a timer to remind yourself to check the oven or stovetop, even if you step away for a moment.

3. Watch What You’re Wearing: Loose or flowing clothing can catch fire easily. When cooking, wear fitted clothing and roll up long sleeves to stay safe around hot appliances.

4. Stay Alert: Cooking under the influence of alcohol or while overly tired increases the chance of accidents. Stay alert in the kitchen and ask for help if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

###Have a Plan in Case of a Kitchen Fire

Even with the best precautions, accidents can still happen. If a kitchen fire does occur, exit the home immediately and call 911. Once it’s safe, SERVPRO of North and Southwest Oklahoma City can help with fire restoration to make your home safe and comfortable again. Our team is here to support you with fast, reliable service when you need it most.

Don’t let a holiday mishap disrupt your season! Stay safe and enjoy a joyful holiday season!

For professional fire damage restoration, visit SERVPRO of North and Southwest Oklahoma City.