How to Put Out a Toaster Fire
Fire is always a risk wherever there are electrical appliances. Although fire safety regulations have come a long way, nothing is foolproof. Something as seemingly harmless as your toaster can be a hazard. All you wanted was breakfast, and your kitchen has gone up in flames. How do you respond?
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If you’re asking yourself that question, you have come to the right place. This guide will take you through the steps you should take to put out a toaster fire. Preparation is essential here, so you’ve done the right thing by reading up on this ahead of time. Let’s start with some basic information.
How Do Toasters Catch on Fire?
Ordinarily, a toaster catching fire is due to a mechanical failure, usually related to the heating element. However, for it to truly spread, it requires fuel. Leftover crumbs and food waste in the bottom of your toaster can act as fuel.
To reduce the risks, make sure to clean out your toaster often. Also, don’t place your toaster near any other flammable material or electrical appliances. Clear space around the appliance can help reduce the spread of flames in an emergency.
What Do You Do if Your Toaster Is Set on Fire?
You must act quickly and deliberately to minimize the damage caused. Every second counts, meaning you need a plan already in place for how you respond. Listed below are the steps we recommend to take action swiftly and protect you and your loved ones.
1. Unplug the Toaster
The first thing you should do is to cut the power. If your toaster continues to generate heat, this will only fuel the flames further. Cut off its supply before doing anything. If you can’t safely unplug the toaster from the outlet, cut off the power via your fuse box.
2. Put Out the Flames
Douse the flames using a fire extinguisher or a large, wet towel/blanket. Aim the nozzle as close as possible to smother the flames effectively. Fire feeds on oxygen, and a large damp towel is a highly effective way to cut off the oxygen supply. Do not chuck water over an electrical fire, as this can cause it to spread significantly.
3. If You’re Unable to Control the Fire, Evacuate
If you can’t put the flames out, evacuate the building and call the fire department. Though this may sound like an extreme response, the situation can worsen quickly. Flames spread astonishingly fast, and it isn’t worth risking your life.
4. Purchase a New Toaster if it’s Damaged
If your toaster has visible damage, ensure that you replace it. While the damage may not look bad, a faulty toaster is far more likely to start another fire. Don’t hang onto it just to save some money; dispose of it immediately.
5. Assess the Surrounding Damage
If the flames spread to other areas of your kitchen, check for damage there as well. The flames may have compromised your outlets or other electrical appliances, leading to another hazard. A full risk assessment is best if you believe the damage extends beyond the toaster.
6. Contact the Professionals
If you aren’t sure whether or not there has been further damage, or if you simply want reassurance, contact a professional repair service such at ADU. Our experts can assess the extent of the damage and make repairs wherever necessary, putting your mind at ease.
Read more: How to stop a grease fire
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an Unplugged Toaster Start a Fire?
Yes. Since toasters contain an electrical heating element, they can still generate heat and malfunction even while unplugged. Still, in a fire, you should always try to cut the power where possible.
Can Leaving a Toaster Plugged in Cause a Fire?
Yes. Toasters draw a lot of electricity to produce heat. The National Fire Protection Association recommends only plugging in one heat-producing appliance per outlet to avoid overheating the electrical wiring. Otherwise, the only way to know your toaster is powered down is by cutting off the electricity supply at the wall. Keeping your toaster unplugged between use can significantly reduce the likelihood of malfunction.
Can a Toaster Cause a House Fire?
Yes. As we mentioned, fire spreads astonishingly fast, which holds actual no matter the source. While a toaster fire may sound initially harmless, it is still an electrical fire, which can prove especially volatile. Do not take it lightly. What starts as a small fire can swiftly turn into an emergency.
Seeking Fire Damage Repair Services? Contact All Dry USA
If you have recently fallen victim to a fire, whether it was from a toaster or otherwise, contact our experts at All Dry USA today. We can fully assess the damage caused and provide you with the ideal solution to get your kitchen and home back in working order.
We have helped numerous homeowners over the years with all structural issues. Fire damage restoration is one of our specialties, so you can rest assured we can get you back on track again. Contact us today via our website or give us a call. We would be happy to hear from you!
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With Ben’s knowledge, and visionary leadership, All Dry USA has expanded into a national, full-service property damage restoration company with multiple locations across the United States. Ben holds numerous specialty licenses and certifications in restoration and construction.
