Sacramento, CA (PSN) — Sacramento Metro Fire crews swiftly extinguished a stove-top fire in a Fulton Avenue apartment Tuesday evening, reminding residents of the increased risk of kitchen fires as the holiday season approaches.
The fire was reported at 5:34 p.m. in the 1500 block of Fulton Avenue. Firefighters arrived to find a small blaze contained to the kitchen, which they quickly extinguished. No injuries were reported.
In a media release, Battalion Chief Parker Wilbourn emphasized the importance of kitchen safety, noting that cooking fires are the leading cause of house fires nationwide.
“Kitchen fires are the #1 cause of house fires,” Wilbourn said. “Going into the holiday season, it’s important to remember to pay attention to what you’re cooking, keep a 3’ clearance around all cooking appliances, and have a fire extinguisher nearby but not directly next to the appliance. The fire could cut off your ability to grab the extinguisher.”
Wilbourn advised residents to take specific precautions, including smothering grease fires with a pan lid rather than using water, which can exacerbate the flames. He also stressed the importance of maintaining functional smoke alarms and practicing home escape plans regularly.
Sacramento Metro Fire reminds the community that vigilance in the kitchen is critical, especially as the holidays bring increased cooking activity.