They are an essential household appliance we’ve all come to use every day.
But toasters could actually be putting your kitchen at risk if you’re not using them correctly because of the danger of starting fires.
Though toasters may be a quick and easy way to turn bread into, well, toast, they are a risk to any kitchen especially if you place them directly under cupboards, or near blinds.
It’s not something most of us probably think about, but the placement of your toaster can directly affect its level of fire risk.
According to fire services, toasters should always be pulled out from under cupboards when in use, and should be placed away from curtains, blinds, or anything else flammable, such as kitchen rolls.
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service says: “Place your toaster well away from curtains or blinds, and anything else flammable such as kitchen rolls. Always pull your toaster out from under overhanging cupboards to use, and empty out crumbs regularly.”
There’s more to it than just placement, though. Toasters, like any appliance, also need to be plugged in safely with a correct fuse.
The advice continues: “Do not overload sockets – use one plug in each socket. If you have to, use a fused adaptor and keep the total output to no more than 13 amps (a kettle alone uses 13 amps). Remember, high-rated appliances such as washing machines always need their own socket.
“Turn off electrical appliances when you’re not using them, and have them serviced regularly.
“Keep electrical leads and appliances away from water, heat or flames.”
This is backed up by other fire services. Hampshire & Isle Of Wight Fire & Rescue Service adds: “Work top appliances such as your toaster and kettle should never be positioned near anything which could catch light e.g. curtain, kitchen roll or too close to an overhanging cupboard.”
Finally, London Fire.gov adds: “Maintain toasters properly: Keep toasters clean and avoid placing them under kitchen cabinets or near anything that could catch fire.”
