Cooking Safety Tips

Cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and injuries. The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is untended food on the stove/in the oven. 
 
Home cooking safety tips:
These safety tips are provided from the Government of Alberta.
  • Never leave the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, simmering, baking, roasting or boiling.
  • Frying is one of the most dangerous cooking activities recorded by fire departments.
    • Use a temperature-controlled fryer or an electric skillet designed for high temperatures.
    • Use only enough oil to cover the bottom of your pan.
    • Heat the oil slowly and always add food carefully to your pot or pan.
    • Keep a lid beside the stove when frying. If a fire starts, use the lid to smother the flames.
  • If you are using an oven, check on your food regularly or use a timer.
  • Do not cook if you are tired or under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
  • Always remain with children if they want to help with cooking. Otherwise, keep children and pets away from cooking areas.
  • Avoid wearing loose-fitting clothing while cooking.
  • Always be sure to clean food and grease from your stove tops.
  • Keep burners, oven and exhaust-fan filters and ducts clean.
  • Always double check that your oven is empty before turning it on.
  • If your appliances are more than 10 years old, have them inspected to ensure they are in good working order. 

If you experience a fire while cooking call 9-1-1