- Safety Article -

Kitchen Safety

43 per cent of all accidental house fires in 2021/22 were caused by cooking appliances.

Last updated: 6th November, 2025

Most accidental fires in the home start in the kitchen. Many of these incidents happen because people are distracted, tired or unaware of the hazards around them. By understanding the risks and making small changes, you can keep yourself and others safer. This advice is shaped by national best practice and supports safe, confident decision making in the home.

Safe habits in the kitchen reduce the chance of a serious fire. Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service is here to help you stay safe and independent at home.

Please use the free to use Online Home Fire Safety Check: https://bucksfire.gov.uk/about-us/services/home-fire-safety-services

What TO Do

Stay with your cooking. Turn off the heat if you need to leave the room.
Keep hobs, ovens, grills and extractor fans clean. Grease and fat can catch fire.
Keep tea towels, kitchen roll, packaging and clothing away from heat sources.
Allow space around appliances. Many items need ventilation.
Place air fryers, microwaves, slow cookers and toasters on stable, heat-resistant surfaces.
Keep appliances away from the hob and other direct heat.
Store heavy appliances at a safe height so they can be moved without risk.
Keep cables clear of water, hot surfaces and the hob area.
Clean and empty toaster crumb trays often. Crumbs can build up and ignite.
Check appliances for damage. Replace frayed leads, loose plugs or anything that smells of burning.
Use safer equipment when possible. A thermostat-controlled fryer is safer than a chip pan.
Consider fitting a heat alarm in the kitchen and test your alarms weekly.
Think about your own needs. If fatigue, health conditions or medication affect concentration, cook when you feel most alert.
Supervise children and pets in the kitchen. Create a clear space around the cooker.
Plan how you would leave the home in an emergency. Keep escape routes clear.

What NOT To Do

Do not cook if you feel tired, unwell or affected by alcohol or medication.
Do not leave cooking unattended. Fires start within minutes.
Do not overload sockets or use unsafe extension leads for kitchen appliances.
Do not place microwaves, kettles, air fryers or toasters in tight or enclosed areas.
Do not place toasters or kettles directly under cupboards. Heat and steam can cause damage or scorch surfaces.
Do not store items above the hob that require reaching over hot pans.
Do not place appliances near the edge of counters where they can fall.
Do not use water on a pan fire involving oil or fat. Turn off the heat if safe, leave the room and call 999.
Do not let children or pets move freely near hot pans or hot surfaces.
Do not ignore manufacturer safety instructions. Incorrect placement increases fire risk.
Do not try to tackle a growing or smoky kitchen fire. Get out, stay out and call 999.
Do not cook whilst wearing loose items of clothing such as scarves or trailing sleeves as they could catch fire

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- Safety Article -

Kitchen Safety

What TO Do

What NOT To Do

Helpful downloads

External Links

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