What To Do When Your Kitchen Catches Fire: The First 24 Hours

Did you know that “from 2017 to 2019, cooking was, by far, the leading cause of all residential building fires and accounted for 51% of all residential building fires responded to by fire departments across the nation” (U.S. Fire Administration, 2021). With kitchen fires being so prevalent, this guide will tell you step by step on how to handle this unforeseen tragedy and tips on how to prevent it.

You just had a kitchen fire start, here’s what to do:

Verify safety

• Notify everyone in the dwelling that there is a fire. Account for all adults, children and pets and get everyone out of the premise and far enough away from the building to ensure safety

Call EMS

• Call 911 to notify the fire department of the fire so emergency services can be dispatched to the residence. The fire department will turn off electricity, gas and water to ensure safety for everyone involved to prevent further damage.

Putting out the fire (if you can)

• You can use baking soda for small fires or a fire extinguisher. 
• Use the PASS method:
  • Pull the pin
  • Aim at the base of the fire
  • Squeeze the handle
  • Sweep side-to-side.
• Stand 6-10 feet away and ensure you have a clear exit path. Only use a fire extinguisher for small, contained fires

Document everything

• Take detailed photographs and videos of all damage to appliances, cabinets, walls, and food items.

Contact professionals

Call your insurance company immediately to file a claim and seek restoration specialists.

What can cause a kitchen fire?

• Unattended Stovetops: Leaving the kitchen while cooking is the #1 risk.
• Grease Fires: Cooking oil, fat, or butter ignites easily, especially during frying.
• Combustible Items: Paper towels, oven mitts, or food packaging left on or near the burner.
• Clothing: Loose clothing, such as long sleeves, can catch fire when reaching over burners.
• Malfunctioning Appliances:  Frayed cords or broken toaster/microwave appliances can spark fires

How can you prevent a kitchen fire?

To prevent fires, never leave the stove unattended, keep your cooking area clean of grease, and keep flammable items away from the stove. 

If a fire occurs, cover the pan with a lid, turn off the heat, and never use water on a grease fire, it causes explosive spreading.  

If it is a grease fire, turn off the burner, cover the pan with a metal lid or cookie sheet to smother the flame and leave it covered until completely cooled.

How to choose the right restoration company for you

• Finding Reputable Fire Damage Restoration Companies:
  Look into local fire damage restoration companies in your area. Focus on businesses with proven experience, strong customer reviews, and certifications from trusted industry organizations such as the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). You can also ask friends, family members, or insurance agents for recommendations based on their past experiences with fire damage restoration services.
  
• Understanding the Restoration Process:
  A reputable fire damage restoration company will evaluate the full scope of the damage and create a detailed plan to restore your kitchen. This typically includes removing debris, cleaning soot, repairing structural issues, and addressing persistent smoke odors. They may also restore items that can be saved, bringing them back to their pre-loss condition. Having a clear understanding of the restoration process helps you know what to expect every step of the way.
  
• Navigating Insurance Claims:
  Navigating the insurance process after a fire can feel overwhelming, but restoration professionals can help make it much easier. They can document the damage, assist with required paperwork, and communicate directly with your insurance provider on your behalf. Be sure to keep thorough records, including photos of the damage and receipts for any fire-related expenses. Proper documentation will support your claim and help ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to.

Bay Coast Restoration is your trusted, certified experts for the Greater Tampa Bay area. You can be rest assured that we will be there from start to finish, providing exceptional service to give you peace of mind. Contact us today if you need assistance in handling your fire damage restoration. Call us at 727-270-8726 or email us at info@baycoastrestoration.com.

Sources:

U.S. Fire Administration. July 2021. https://www.usfa.fema.gov/statistics/reports/fire-causes/cooking-fires-residential-buildings-v21i5.html