Cooking is the number one cause of residential fires in Ontario.

If you have an emergency, call 911.

On this page:

  1. If you have a cooking fire
  2. Home cooking safety
  3. Cooking with oil

If you have a cooking fire

Follow these steps if you have a cooking fire:

  • just get out!
  • when you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire
  • call 911
  • if you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out
  • keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires:
    • smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop
    • leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled
  • for an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed

Home cooking safety

Follow these safety tips when cooking:

  • 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, grilling, boiling or broiling food
  • if you are simmering, baking or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen 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

Cooking with oil

Follow these safety tips when you're cooking with oil:

  • always stay in the kitchen when frying on the stovetop
  • keep an eye on what you fry:
    • if you see wisps of smoke or the oil smells, immediately turn off the burner and/or carefully remove the pan from the burner
    • smoke is a danger sign that the oil is too hot
  • heat the oil slowly to the temperature you need for frying or sautéing
  • add food gently to the pot or pan so the oil does not splatter
  • always cook with a lid beside your pan:
    • f you have a fire, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner
    • do not remove the cover because the fire could start again
    • let the pan cool for a long time
    • never throw water on the fire

If the fire does not go out or you don’t feel comfortable sliding a lid over the pan, get everyone out of your home. Call 911 from outside.