Kitchen fires spike: authorities urge vigilance to prevent winter blazes

By Contributed

Jul 29, 2024

Fire authorities in Victoria are warning residents about the dangers of kitchen fires, with statistics showing a rise in incidents. Photo: Supplied

Victoria’s fire services are issuing an urgent warning about kitchen safety this winter, as cooking continues to be the leading cause of house fires.

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CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said leaving cooking unattended was one of the most common causes of preventable house fires.

The figures paint a concerning picture, with the CFA tackling about 250 kitchen-related blazes across Victoria in the past year alone.

This is 20 more incidents than at the same stage last year.

“We know a fire in your kitchen can cause extensive damage and high-level injuries, and unfortunately we saw this occur four times last year,” Mr Heffernan said.

“We know that 6pm is the peak time for fires, and most are due to unattended cooking or mechanical failure.

“Make sure your kitchen appliances are in good working order, and ensure your stove top, griller, oven, rangehood and cooking area are free from built-up grease, dust and oil.

“While most fatal fires occur in sleeping areas, it is important to note that most residential fires start in the kitchen.”

Fire Rescue Victoria deputy commissioner community safety Joshua Fischer said it was essential to maintain awareness and pay close attention to the stove when cooking to reduce the risks of a fire starting in the kitchen.

“Cooking is a part of everyday life — but no-one can afford to be complacent about the fire-safety risks. Ensuring you don’t leave your cooking unattended may save your life and property,” he said.

“If a fire does start in the kitchen, turn off the stove if it’s safe to do so. Use a fire extinguisher or fire blanket only if you are confident to use them.

“Evacuate everyone from the home, close the kitchen door if safe to do so, and call 000.”

Mr Fischer said all Victorians should have working smoke alarms powered by a 10-year long-life battery in all sleeping and living areas of their home.

”If affordable, we recommend installation of interconnected smoke alarms, so when any alarm activates, all smoke alarms will sound throughout the house,” Mr Fisher said.

Here are some essential kitchen safety strategies from the CFA to prevent winter fire hazards:

Pay attention in the kitchen and never leave cooking unattended.
Always supervise children; keep them away from the stove top and oven.
Keep stove top, griller, oven, range hood and cooking area free from built-up grease, dust and oil.
Things that can catch fire such as tea towels and paper towels must be kept away from cooking and heat sources.
Make sure kitchen appliances are clean and in good working order and keep pot handles turned in.
A fire extinguisher and fire blanket should be stored within easy reach but away from the cooking area. Victorian Fire Services recommend that you only use a fire extinguisher or fire blanket if you feel confident to use this equipment safely.