Oh my goodness, the chips!
14/05/2009
Queensland's budding master chefs are being reminded about the risks of kitchen fires, with one in three of us admitting to leaving cooking unattended*.
NRMA Insurance home claims over the past five years show kitchens are the most likely place for a fire to start, accounting for about one third of Queensland’s house fires.
NRMA Insurance Queensland State Manager Brett Robinson said a recent household survey revealed under 25s, renters and households with kids were more likely to leave cooking unattended.
“People are either unaware of the risks of leaving cooking unattended or are getting distracted and forgetting about what’s on the stove or in the oven,” he said.
“Kitchen fires can start and spread very quickly, often jumping to curtains and cupboards in a matter of seconds.”
NRMA Insurance estimates more than 15 fires a week** start in Queensland kitchens. Common fire hazards include cooking oil overheating, bread getting caught in toasters, food left simmering and forgotten, and hot plates left on.
Queensland Fire & Rescue Service (QFRS) Commissioner Lee Johnson said kitchen fires had the potential to create major structural damage.
“Kitchen fires can be avoided by never leaving cooking unattended and ensuring curtains, tea towels, oven mitts and any flammable items are kept well away from the cooking area,” he said.
“Importantly, if a fire does start on the stove, remember water doesn’t put out fat or oil fires. Putting water on this type of fire can cause the fire to spread rapidly. A fire extinguisher or fire blanket should be used instead.”
To take the worry out of fire safety, NRMA Insurance sponsors the (QFRS) Safehome program, a free check by fire-fighters to help households reduce the risk of fire and learn what to do if one occurs. To arrange your free Safehome visit phone 1300 369 003.
NRMA Insurance and the QFRS also recommend these fire safety tips:
- Check smoke alarms are working once a month and change any batteries at least once a year;
- Keep a fire extinguisher and fire blanket near the kitchen entrance, and make sure you know how to use them;
- Have an evacuation plan and make sure everyone in your house knows it;
- Don’t key-lock deadlocks on doors when you’re home in case you need to leave in a hurry; and
- Call 000 immediately if fire breaks out and can’t be safely and quickly controlled.
** Extrapolated figure based on NRMA Insurance claims data and market share