This device has the capacity to continue generating heat even when it has no food inside.
There is an appliance that should be unplugged immediately after use because of its high risk of causing a fire and significant property damage in the home. It is the toaster.
According to All Dry USA, an American company specializing in fire restoration, toasters consume a considerable amount of electricity to generate heat, which makes them a potential risk if they are not unplugged after use.
A practical example of how a toaster can start a fire is when the breadcrumbs accumulated inside overheat and start to burn.
This small fire can spread quickly if the appliance is plugged in, as it continues to receive electricity, increasing the intensity of the heat. If the toaster is also close to flammable materials, such as curtains or paper, the flames could spread throughout the kitchen in a matter of minutes.
What to do if a toaster catches fire
If a toaster catches fire, it is essential to act quickly and follow a clear plan to minimize damage and protect the safety of everyone present. The company mentioned above recommends following these steps:
- Disconnect the toaster.
The first thing to do is to cut off the power supply to the appliance. If the toaster continues to generate heat, the flames can be further fanned. If it is not possible to disconnect it directly from the power outlet, it is necessary to cut off the electricity from the fuse box.
- Extinguish the flames.
The flames should be controlled using a fire extinguisher suitable for electrical fires or a damp blanket or towel. It is important to completely cover the fire to cut off the supply of oxygen, as this feeds the fire. Under no circumstances should water be thrown, as it could make the situation worse and cause the fire to spread rapidly.
- Evacuate the area if the fire cannot be controlled.
If it is not possible to extinguish the flames safely, it is essential to evacuate the house immediately and contact the emergency services. Flames can spread very quickly, putting the lives of people in the house at risk.
- Replace the toaster if it is damaged.
Once the incident has been brought under control, it is important to dispose of the appliance if it shows visible damage. Even if the damage appears superficial, a faulty toaster has a high risk of causing another fire in the future.
- Assess the surrounding damage.
It is necessary to check the areas surrounding the fire for possible damage to sockets, cables or other electrical appliances. A thorough assessment helps to identify any additional hazards that may have been left behind after the fire.
- Contact professionals.
If you have any doubts about the extent of the damage, it is advisable to seek the services of professionals specialised in repair and risk assessment.
How to use a toaster safely
Using a toaster safely is essential to prevent accidents, such as fires or electric shocks, in the home. To begin with, it is important to place the toaster on a flat, stable surface and away from flammable materials, such as curtains, paper or plastic kitchen utensils.
Breadcrumbs should not be left inside the toaster, as they have the ability to fan the fire. (Illustrative Image Infobae)
Before using it, you should check that the appliance is clean, as the accumulation of crumbs inside can lead to overheating and, in extreme cases, cause fires.
It is essential not to leave the toaster unattended while it is in operation. If the bread gets stuck, never try to remove it with metal utensils, as this could cause an electric shock. The best option is to turn off the appliance, unplug it and wait for it to cool down before solving the problem.
After use, the toaster should be unplugged from the power outlet to avoid electrical hazards and overheating. In addition, it is recommended to clean it periodically following the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure optimal and safe operation.
