Kitchen Fire Safety Checklist

Most house fires start in the kitchen. The mix of heat, grease, appliances, and distractions makes it the highest-risk room in the home. This checklist cuts the biggest hazards fast.

For extinguisher guidance, review Fire Extinguisher Types and Uses.

1. Cooking Habits That Prevent Fires

• [ ] Never leave cooking food unattended
• [ ] Keep stovetop free of towels, paper, and packaging
• [ ] Turn pot handles inward to avoid spills
• [ ] Use timers to avoid forgetting pans
• [ ] Keep children and pets away from hot surfaces

2. Grease and Oil Control

• [ ] Clean stovetop and hood filters regularly
• [ ] Keep a lid nearby to smother grease fires
• [ ] Never use water on a grease fire
• [ ] Replace old, unstable containers of cooking oil

3. Appliance Safety

• [ ] Inspect cords on air fryers, toasters, and microwaves
• [ ] Keep appliances clear of water sources
• [ ] Unplug high-heat appliances when not in use
• [ ] Check for scorching or scorch marks near outlets

4. Electrical Safety in the Kitchen

• [ ] Make sure GFCI outlets function properly
• [ ] Avoid daisy-chaining power strips or adapters
• [ ] Replace outlets that spark or feel warm
• [ ] Keep cords away from hot surfaces

5. Oven, Stove, and Microwave Checks

• [ ] Ensure burners heat evenly
• [ ] Clean oven spills that can burn or smoke
• [ ] Keep microwave vents unobstructed
• [ ] Replace damaged oven seals

6. Fire Suppression Tools

• [ ] Keep a kitchen-rated extinguisher (Class K or ABC)
• [ ] Know how to use PASS method (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep)
• [ ] Keep baking soda nearby for small flare-ups
• [ ] Ensure extinguishers are not expired

7. Ventilation and Heat Control

• [ ] Use range hood when frying or searing
• [ ] Clean grease traps and filters
• [ ] Ensure vents are not blocked by cabinets or décor

8. Storage and Pantry Hazards

• [ ] Keep flammable cooking sprays away from heat
• [ ] Store alcohol and oils in cool areas
• [ ] Avoid crowding items near stovetop

9. Emergency Readiness

• [ ] Know two exit paths from the kitchen
• [ ] Keep floors dry to avoid slips during emergencies
• [ ] Teach all family members what to do if a fire starts

Kitchen fires escalate fast. This checklist keeps the biggest ignition sources under control and gives you the tools to stop small fires before they turn into full house losses.