It often takes just a spark to turn a family gathering around the kitchen into a call for emergency services. According to the State Fire Marshal's Office, cooking is the primary culprit in residential building fires, responsible for 44%. Fire Marshal Chad Cross warns that inattention is a particularly combustible ingredient, with more than a third of these fires starting from unattended cooking equipment.

According to the Washington State Patrol, Marshal Cross advised the public on ways to keep their homes and loved ones safe. "Please keep a few things in mind when cooking," Marshal Cross said. Recommendations include the common sense – yet often ignored – guidance to never leave cooking equipment unattended, and to keep flammable items clear from heat sources.

Additional safety tips shared, emphasize the importance of working smoke alarms and having a fire extinguisher ready and within reach. Home cooks are also reminded to maintain a clean stovetop and to keep their clothing from coming into contact with burners or other heat sources. Knowing how to react if a fire breaks out is just as important, with the Marshal establishing the need for a "safe zone" and the dire advice to exit and call 911 if a fire doesn't subside is critical.

Common kitchen missteps such as placing aluminum foil or metal in the microwave also made the list, as these are avoidable hazards that can lead to disaster. Marshal Cross's message, shared on the Washington State Patrol website, serves as a reminder that vigilance in the kitchen is a key ingredient to not only a good meal but a safe home environment.