Cooking-related fires are the number one cause of home fires. A lid, used properly, can suffocate a pan fire on top of the stove, preventing a serious kitchen fire.

Better yet, review the following safety tips to prevent a cooking fire at your home!

Safety Tips

• Do not leave cooking unattended on the stove. A serious fire can start in just seconds.
• Keep the stove and oven clean. Butter, oil and other greasy foods left on the stove can catch fire.
• Use a timer when cooking to prevent overcooking or burning food.
• Keep children and pets away from the stove while cooking.
• Keep items that can catch fire, such as dishtowels, paper or plastic bags, at least three feet away from the range top.
• Never use the stove or oven to heat your home. Double-check the kitchen before you go to bed or leave the house.

If a fire starts in a pan, turn off the stove and carefully cover the pan with a lid, cookie sheet or another pan. Do not move it until it is cool.