Fire Prevention Week (FPW) runs from October 8 to 14, 2023 and the City of Kenora Fire and Emergency Services is urging everyone to practice fire safety while cooking and when in the kitchen.
Unattended cooking and distractions leave you unprepared to act in the event of fire. It is recommended to avoid a cluttered workspace around the stove and loose-fitting clothes that can easily lead to items catching fire. Consider creating a prep station away from the stove, avoid cooking under the influence of alcohol or other drugs, and secure loose hair or clothing. Fire safety in the kitchen starts with prevention and being prepared.
Fire Chief David Pratt urges you to never leave the kitchen when the stove is on, not even for a minute. A fire can start fast and an unattended pot on fire will spread before you are even aware. If you must leave the cooking area, turn off the stove. Unattended cooking is not an accident and can be avoided by staying by the stove.
As a reminder, everyone needs to ensure a working smoke alarm is installed on every storey of your home and tested at least once a month. Having a home fire escape plan that is practiced by everyone in the home for a safe escape in an emergency once the smoke alarm sounds is mandatory. These plans will save lives.
Follow the City of Kenora Fire and Emergency Service on Facebook for tips and reminders about fire safety in the kitchen during Fire Prevention Week. Practice fire safe cooking and test out some recipes shared by the Office of the Fire Marshal on social media.
“There’s no excuse for a fire in the kitchen because of unattended cooking. Being fire safe starts with prevention. This Fire Prevention Week, remember that most fires in the home start in the kitchen and practice fire safe cooking.” states Jon Pegg, Ontario Fire Marshal.
“Accidents can happen but can be avoided by practicing fire safety in the kitchen starting with staying by the stove, keeping a lid close to slide over pot in the event of fire, keeping a clear area around the stove, and avoiding distractions to focus on the task at hand when cooking.” states Deputy Fire Chief Dexter Hupe.
For further information on kitchen fire safety or smoke alarm maintenance, please contact the City of Kenora Fire and Emergency Services at 807-467-2090.