Small Appliance Safety: Busting Out Your Favorite Mac'n Cheese In A Fire Safe Kitchen

Crock-Pot Confidential

"Winter is Coming", not just a cliché for the dragon riders in all of us, but a slow creeping wisteria out of the Arctic, culminating with the dreaded Polar Vortex . In as much, the Sofa crashing food season is looming, and one of the most comforting of all is a hearty, zesty and creamy slow cooker Mac n Cheese.

But in the exhuming of the mostly seasonal small appliances from the cupboard recesses comes the risk of electrical failures, and fire.

Slow Cooker, Slow Burn!

The slow cooker, commonly known as the Crock-Pot (Newell Brands), is a well known kitchen companion, especially during the chilly months.

However, this small appliance has the potential to ignite concern if not handled carefully and per manufacturer's instructions. Between 2007 - 2011 slow cookers were involved in an estimated 150 reported home fires, with an average 10 injuries and ~$2M in property damage annually, based on National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reporting.

This may seem like a small number, but when you add in accidents from other typically small appliances like toasters, kettles, coffee makers and microwaves, the numbers can get significant.

The main culprit behind slow cooker fires, like other small appliances, are electrical issues. Wear and tear on the appliance's cords, switches or internal wiring, or improper use, can lead to shorts and sparks.

Factoid: Is Fire A Concern In Commercial Kitchens? During 2010-2014 there were and average of ~7,400 fires in eating and drinking establishments reported by US Fire Departments. Cooking equipment was the leading cause of these accounting for 3 out of 5 fires (61%). - NFPA Installing products like Nvent Pyrotenax UL 2 Hour Fire Rated Cable for the Emergency Lighting and Exhaust Systems, can assist in saving lives and property.

To Reduce the Risk:

1. Regular Maintenance: Check that the power cord and plug are in good condition. Replace any frayed or damaged cords immediately, or replace the unit.
2. Use Certified Products: Slow cookers and other small appliances should carry marking from Nationally Recognized Testing Labs, like UL, CSA, ETL/Intertek, with the proper test standard for the country of jurisdiction.
3. Unplug It: Unplug that slow cooker, toaster, coffee maker, blender, etc. when you're not using it. It's a simple step that can go a long way in preventing accidents.

General Kitchen Safety Measures Enhance the Recipe

Some "practical safety measures" for the kitchen to reduce the risk of small appliance fires include:

1. Clear the Clutter: Keep flammable materials, such as kitchen towels and paper towels, away from slow cookers, toasters, stove tops, and other heat-producing appliances.
2. Proper Ventilation: Ensure your kitchen is well-aired to stop buildup of smoke and fumes. This not only improves safety but also makes your cooking experience more enjoyable, and no screaming smoke detectors.
3. Smoke Detectors: Install smoke alarms in the kitchen and nearby areas. Regularly test them to ensure they are in working order, and have a battery changing regiment. In case of a fire, early detection is life saving.
4. Extinguisher: Have a small fire extinguisher within easy reach in the kitchen space. Get to know how to use it and make sure it's regularly inspected.
5. Be Aware: Don't leave cooking food unattended, especially stove tops, and be aware of small heating appliances like slow cookers, make sure the household knows this device is on.
6. Keep Kids and Pets Away: Children and pets naturally want to know, so it's essential to establish a safe zone and educate them about the dangers in the kitchen.

Remember, while we often associate small appliance fires with cooking, they can occur during other kitchen activities as well. Diligence and preventive measures are your best allies in maintaining an electrically safe and fire free kitchen.

The Recipe for a Fire-Free Kitchen

The wafting hypnotic smells of the savory Mac n Cheese envelope the home like that of baking apple pie, calling humans and pets (and even the neighbors) like a pied piper. Attending to the small appliance in your kitchen makes for an enjoyable experience throughout the colder season, and the promise of the impending spring.

References:

1. NFPA - Slow Cookers, Crockpots, and Small Appliance Fire Safety
2. NFPA - Fire Prevention Week
3. USFA - Cooking Fires
4. NFPA - Home Cooking Fires

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