A demonstration on how to extinguish a pot fire on a stove with a fire blanket. Photo: Keith Pakenham
More than 900 kitchen-related house fires have been recorded across Victoria in less than 12 months, prompting safety warnings from the state’s fire services during National Burns Awareness Month.
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Between May 17, 2024 and March 31, 2025, CFA responded to 219 structure fires originating in the kitchen, representing 28.3 per cent of all house fires in CFA-serviced areas, while Fire Rescue Victoria attended 750 residential fires that started in the kitchen.
Victorian Adult Burns Service acting deputy director at The Alfred Dr Tam Quinn said they had already seen a 21 per cent increase in patients presenting with burns sustained in the home this year.
‘’And many of these patients require surgery and skin grafting,’’ she said.
“Any burn injury requiring grafting can be life-changing, because while lifesaving, they can leave scarring and result in some functional impairment.’’
Victoria’s fire agencies encourage all Victorians to take the following steps to remain safe while in the kitchen:
Pay attention in the kitchen and never leave cooking unattended.
Take extra care around open flames if wearing flowing or loose-fitting clothing.
Always supervise children, keep them away from the stove top and oven.
Keep stove top, griller, oven, rangehood and cooking area free from built up grease, dust and oil.
Combustibles such as tea towels and paper towels must be kept away from cooking and heat sources.
Make sure kitchen appliances are clean and in good working order. Keep pot handles turned in.
A fire extinguisher and fire blanket should be installed within easy reach but away from the cooking area.
Victorian Fire Services recommend that you only use a fire extinguisher or fire blanket if you feel physically and mentally able to use this equipment safely.
