Cooking remains the leading cause of residential fires, as nearly a third of all building fires in Finland are caused by cooking. According to data from the Finnish National Rescue Association, approximately 900 fires per year are caused by cooking. To increase awareness and prevent such fires, the association has published a manual on the safe use of stoves, which details the risks present in the kitchen and how to avoid them.

According to international statistics, cooking fires are a common phenomenon worldwide. In the United States, cooking is the primary cause of home fires and fire-related injuries—in 2018 alone, more than 173,000 fires were reported, resulting in 550 deaths and 4,820 injuries. In the United Kingdom, cooking is the most common cause of household fires, accounting for more than 50% of all registered fires.

The Finnish National Rescue Association's manual emphasises that it is dangerous to leave food unattended while cooking and to store items unrelated to cooking on or near the stove. Items such as coffee machines, microwave covers, and chopping boards should not be placed on the stove, as they can easily catch fire.

Furthermore, cooking fires can occur due to forgetfulness, intoxication, or reduced cognitive function. The manual highlights the importance of being aware of the risks and paying attention to your surroundings while cooking.

Despite the fact that fires occurring during cooking are common, they are often under-reported in the media, and official statistics may not accurately reflect their true frequency. Not all fires are reported to emergency services, especially if the damage is minor, so the true number of cooking fires may be higher than reported.

To reduce the risk of cooking fires, the Finnish National Rescue Association recommends taking preventive measures, such as clearing unnecessary items from the stove area, paying attention to the food being cooked while the stove is in use, ensuring that there is a functioning smoke alarm in the home, and knowing the location of fire extinguishers.

The manual also recommends investing in stove safety devices, such as stove guards, which can help prevent fires caused by forgetfulness or cognitive decline. In addition, loved ones can help ensure kitchen safety by assisting in removing potential hazards and keeping an eye on the stove while food is being prepared.

It is important to note that a fire caused by cooking can be fatal, especially for those who cannot quickly escape from a fire. By following the safety tips outlined in this manual, people can reduce the risk of a fire breaking out while cooking and ensure the safety of themselves and their loved ones.

Which items have caught fire on the stove?

Between 2016 and 2020, the materials or items that most often caught fire first while on or near the stove were:

Food
Fat/oil
Miscellaneous items
Dishes
Electric kettle
Microwave cover
Chopping board
Coffee machine
Oven mitt or pot holder
Coffee pot
Food packaging
Plastic container
Paper
Empty pot or pan
Baby bottle
Plastic spatula

Source: Finnish National Rescue Association