Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) are urging Victorians to make fire safety a priority in the kitchen this winter after firefighters responded to around 900 kitchen fires last year.
FVR Commissioner Gavin Freeman said unattended cooking was one of the most common causes of preventable house fires.
“We frequently encounter kitchen fires and we understand there’s lots to do around the home, but it’s crucial to be aware of your kitchen environment and reduce the risk of fire by staying near the stove,” Commissioner Freeman said.
“If a fire does start in the kitchen, turn off the stove if it’s safe to do so,” he said.
“Use a fire extinguisher or fire blanket if you are confident in their use, evacuate everyone from the home, close the kitchen door and call Triple Zero.”
Country Fire Authority (CFA) Acting Chief Officer Garry Cook said there were many ways kitchen fires could be avoided to help keep families safe this winter.
“We know that 6pm is the peak time triple zero dispatch CFA brigades to homes due to unattended cooking,” Acting CO Cook said.
“Make sure your kitchen appliances are in good working order, and ensure your stove top, griller, oven, range hood and cooking area are free from built up grease, dust and oil,” he said.
“While most fatal fires occur in sleeping areas, it is important to note that most residential fires start in the kitchen and over the last 10 years 15 per cent of fatalities and serious injuries have still occurred from kitchen fires.”
Acting CO Cook said kitchen fires could cause extensive damage and high-level injuries.
He reminded Victorians to ensure they had working smoke alarms powered by a 10 year-long life battery in all sleeping and living areas of their home and if affordable, interconnected smoke alarms.
Further home safety tips can be accessed at this PS News link.
