What’s the #1 Cause of House Fires?

Cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires, home fire injuries, and deaths from home fires according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

This week, October 8-14, is Fire Prevention Week and the NFPA campaign is, “Cooking safety starts with YOU. Pay attention to fire prevention.” So we thought this would be a good time for all of us in the Utica area to reflect on cooking fire safety.

For our part, we’ve got some valuable safety tips for you plus advice on what to do in the event of a cooking fire at home.

Fire Safety is Life Saving So Cook With Caution

Important tips from the NFPA (check out their website for more valuable info and educational materials!):

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove or stovetop.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, boiling, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
• If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch fire…oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains…away from your stovetop.
• Have a “kid-free-zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried.

What To Do if You Have a Small Grease Fire

On the stovetop, smother the flames by sliding a lid over the pan and turning off the burner. Leave the pan over the fire until it is completely cooled.

For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

Any doubts, just get out. Remember to close the door behind you so more air doesn’t fuel the fire and call 9-1-1.

A Bit About Fire Prevention Week October 8-14, 2023

The NFPA has sponsored the public observance of Fire Prevention Week for 101 years. In 1925 President Calvin Cooledge proclaimed it a national observance, making it the longest-running public health observance in the country.

Children, adults, and teachers are encouraged to learn how to prevent fires and how to stay safe if one occurs.

Scalzo, Zogby & Wittig Homeowners Insurance

Damage caused by a kitchen fire is covered on your homeowners insurance policy. That includes fire and smoke damage to the appliances, dwelling, and contents. But do you have the right amount of insurance?

Call us for a quote. We’re an independent agency representing 22 carefully selected insurance companies. With just a phone call, we put them to work competing for your business. You get the right coverage at the most competitive price.

If you’re a client now and you’re unsure of your coverages, get in touch and we’ll answer all of your questions.

We look forward to speaking with you. And now that the fall season is here with winter approaching, our kitchens here in the Mohawk Valley will be full of the sweet and savory smells of good old-fashioned Central New York cooking.

We hope you’ll take these few safety tips seriously to have a safe and delicious rest of the year!

Until next time,

Your SZW Team

SZW Insurance is your Utica area Trusted Choice™ independent insurance agent. Call us for a quote on insurance for your home, car, business, or life at 315.792.0000. Or request a quote here.