Cooking Fire Safety

Everyday safety

Make safety part of every meal. Explore practical ways to prevent kitchen fires and learn what to do if a cooking fire starts.

Cooking Fire Safety Facts

Unattended cooking is the leading factor in home cooking fires.
Ranges accounted for the largest share of home cooking fire incidents.
Frying poses the greatest risk of fire.
Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires.
Two-thirds of home cooking fires started when food or other cooking materials caught fire.

Be on alert. If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the stove or stovetop.
Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains — away from your stovetop.