Tips for safe cooking

By Marci L. Stone, MBA, EFO
Deputy Chief
Bedford County Department of Fire & Rescue
 
    Did you know that fires originating in the kitchen are the leading cause of accidental fires in homes? 
    Often fires that occur in the kitchen are caused when cooking with oil and grease and the product becomes to hot igniting items on the burner or in the oven.  Bedford County Department of Fire & Rescue would like you to know a few safety tips to keep your family safe when cooking.
    Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking to keep a close eye on what you are cooking.  If you have to leave the kitchen for any reason, always carry a spoon or pot holder as a reminder to return to the kitchen. 
    If you do not already have extinguishers in your home, go out and purchase a few and keep one in your kitchen in a readily accessible location. In the event of a fire, have someone call 911, turn off the burner, attempt to cover the pan with a metal top or covering, never throw water on a grease fire, if flames are still present use a fire extinguisher.
    Remember to never pick up or attempt to move a burning pot/pan, this only increase the air fanning the flames causing the fire to grow and also increases your risk of injury. 
    Always call 911 for any fire as they are never too small for the fire department to respond.     Often people dismiss a small fire and do not call 911 because they think the fire is out, only to discover that the fire has  grown in size. Bedford County Department of Fire & Rescue has responders ready to respond to aid in your emergency.