At KAUST, we strive to keep our community safe from fires of all types and to share helpful information to prevent fires, including fires that start in homes due to unattended cooking.
Unattended cooking is the leading cause of fires and fire-related injuries and deaths in homes worldwide, which is preventable. One way we can all contribute to Keeping KAUST Safe is to prevent actions that can cause fires in our homes, such as unattended cooking. Here’s how:
Prevent unattended cooking
Stay in the kitchen while frying, boiling, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period, turn off the stove.
If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the home while the food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
Do not allow children and pets to play in the kitchen when you are cooking.
Pay close attention to your cooking. Fires can ignite when the heat is too high, and if you notice smoke or grease boiling, it’s crucial that you turn off the stove or burner immediately.
Remember, unattended cooking is a serious matter, often leading to devastating fires and injuries, which can be prevented by following the safety tips above.
Actions to take in the event of a cooking fire
If you have a small cooking fire and decide to fight the fire on the stovetop, smother the flames by sliding a lid over the pan and turning off the heat. Leave the pan covered until it is cooled.
For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.
If you have any doubt about fighting a small fire, leave the area, close the door behind you, and immediately call KAUST Emergency Services on 012 808 911.
Community members are responsible for ensuring that KAUST is and remains a safe place to live and work.
For more fire safety information and resources, please visit hse.kaust.edu.sa or contact us at hse@kaust.edu.sa.