Press releases

Edina Fire Department responds to unattended cooking fire

Edina, Minn., Sept. 10, 2009 -- On Friday, Sept. 4, the Edina Fire Department was dispatched to an apartment complex on the 4100 block of Parklawn Avenue after a call reported heavy smoke coming from one of the building’s units. Firefighter/paramedics arrived to find the remnants of a stovetop fire that had been extinguished by the unit’s resident.

Other residents of the apartment complex had already been evacuated from the building by the time fire crews arrived. After an initial inspection, crews worked to remove smoke from the unit and hallways. The fire had been contained to the stove top, oven hood and surrounding cabinets and countertops.

According to Edina Fire Marshal Tom Jenson, the resident had started heating a pan of oil and then left the kitchen. The fire started in the pan shortly after. Upon discovering the fire, the resident made the mistake of dumping water on the burning oil. Jenson says that while the water did ultimately put out the flames, it could have easily caused the fire and oil to splatter and spread, possibly injuring the resident.

“Never attempt to put out an oil or grease fire with water,” said Edina Fire Marshal Tom Jenson. “Instead, use a lid, baking soda or even a damp towel with the water wrung out.”

The resident also failed to immediately call 9-1-1, instead seeking out the building’s manager.

“Rule number one is always call 9-1-1 when there is a fire,” said Jenson. “Even if you think you have put the fire out, law requires that we inspect the scene and file a report.”

Unattended cooking fires continue to be a leading cause of home fires in Edina and across the country. The Edina Fire Department would like to remind residents to remain in the kitchen whenever frying, grilling or broiling. If you must leave the kitchen, even for a short time, turn the stove off.

For more information on kitchen fires and prevention, visit www.CityofEdina.com/Fire or call the Edina Fire Department at 952-826-0339.