Toaster ovens are a valuable addition to any kitchen. Whether you feel like having a crunchy toast of bread or want to bake some freshly baked cookies, a toaster serves all these purposes. But how safe is a toaster oven?
Toaster ovens can catch fire. A toaster oven is potentially one of the most hazardous appliances in your kitchen. They are responsible for hundreds of deaths every year. We’re not trying to scare you; if appropriately handled, toaster ovens do not pose this danger.
But since toaster ovens generate heat, they naturally do incline to produce fire as well, especially when they are left on for too long or not cleaned properly.
Let’s first look into how the toasters can catch fire to avoid this problem.
4 Reasons Why Toasters May Catch Fire
They Can Overheat
Toasters produce a lot of heat to cook the food they are supposed to cook. But if they are left plugged in or turned on after the necessary amount of heat has been generated, then they can potentially overheat, resulting in a fire.
So be sure to turn them off once you are done using them.
There May Be Leftover Food Crumbs
At times we may forget to clean our appliances properly. Some food, such as breadcrumbs, may be left at the bottom of the toaster. The bottom of the toaster also contains the heating element. Food left there too long can overheat and ignite, catching fire.
It is essential to regularly clean and washes your toaster to avoid such a situation.
There Might Be Exposure to Other Appliances
Being around other appliances can cause the toaster to catch fire, especially if the appliance is also a conductor of electricity. If a toaster is left around another electric device, it can catch fire, and the fire can expand.
If appliances such as metal knives are used to clean a toaster, that can be dangerous too. Because metals conduct electricity, and if the toaster is still hot or turned on during the cleaning process, a fire is likely.
Be sure to properly turn the oven off before cleaning and keep it away from other electric appliances to avoid this.
It Can Be Damaged
You must regularly check your toaster for signs of damage. If you see any black spots or burns, be sure to get it checked or replaced. Old toasters are more likely to catch fire than new ones.
What To Do In Incase Of Fire
If your toaster catches fire, the first step is to turn it off immediately and use a fire extinguisher. You should also remove nearby electric appliances to prevent the fire from spreading and open all the windows to let the smoke out.
Conclusion
Electric appliances that generate heat always pose the risk of catching fire. The same issue applies to toaster ovens. They are inevitably going to become hazardous if left on too long and if they are left unrepaired or unclean. Proper care and maintenance can keep you and your family safe.
