Common Causes of Oven Fires

12/23/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle specializes in fire and water damage restoration.

Household fires can be absolutely devastating, particularly if they aren’t contained or dealt with swiftly. The most common place for a blaze to begin is in the kitchen. Your stove and oven are two big potential fire sources, because they generate heat with gas or electricity. Here are contributing factors that can trigger a kitchen fire.

Technical Malfunctions

Ovens can malfunction and start a fire, especially if they are old, poorly maintained, or damaged in some way.

Electric ovens have heating elements that can spark a blaze. Turn off your electric oven if you see sparks or if it is not working properly.

Gas ovens may develop leaks that can lead to explosions. Immediately call the utility company if you smell gas; the odor indicates a leak around your oven or stove.

Cleanliness

Oven fires often happen due to a buildup of grease and other cooking byproducts, from not clean regularly or thoroughly. Even dust can trigger an oven blaze if it gets thick enough.  Clean your oven regularly, especially if you spill something or food boils over inside of it. Only use appropriate cleaning products.

Forgetfulness

Never leave something cooking in the oven without monitoring it regularly. Many fires happen when someone turns on the appliance, leaves something to cook and leaves the room, or even the house, for an extended period. Turn off the oven if you cannot keep an eye on the item while it is baking, and finish cooking it later.

Improper Use

Ovens are meant to cook food, and using them for other purposes can lead to fires. Bake only with cookware approved for use in an oven and never use your oven for:

• Heating your home if your furnace is not working.
• Drying combustible materials.
• Store flammable items when you are not cooking.
• Storage for items, such as pots, pans, and bakeware, when using the oven.

What to Do if You Notice Flames

• Never open the oven door if you see a fire The flames could burn you, ignite your clothing, or spread outside of the appliance.
• Turn off the heat and see if the fire dies out on its own.
• Use a fire extinguisher if the flames spread outside of the oven through the top, sides, or bottom.
• Get out of the house and call the fire department if you do not have an extinguisher or cannot put out the spreading fire
• Always have a repair person evaluate your oven after a fire, as the oven will likely need repairs or replacement.
• Contact SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle at (302) 392-6000 is you are in need of smoke and soot cleanup.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle?

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment needed to quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Please refer to our Fire Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.