Jonny Smith, fire safety expert and managing director of fire protection services at Crusader Fire, warns homeowners about these lesser-known fire risks and how to stay safe.
13 fire accidents from toasters
"Newcastle has made progress in overall fire safety, being one of three districts to see a reduction in accidental dwelling fires between April and December 2024, with total incidents falling by 7%, from 353 to 329.
“However, toasters and grills were still directly linked to 13 of these fires, placing them among the top eight causes of accidental dwelling fires in the city.”
Newcastle’s top fire alarm incident: Burnt toast
“Between April and December 2024, burnt toast accounted for over 1,100 domestic fire alarm activations in the region out of a total of 2,639 fire alarm activations this year, close to half of Newcastle’s total incidents, making it the top problem in households.
“When combined with the 13 fire accidents caused by toasters during the same period, it’s clear that toaster-related incidents, ranking 8th among the top ten causes, represent a significant portion of fire safety issues in Newcastle homes.”
Fire safety tips for prevention
Keep it clean
"Keeping your toaster clean is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent a fire. Regularly removing crumbs and wiping them down ensures it’s running efficiently and reduces the risk of overheating or causing a fire from trapped food particles."
Turn them off immediately after
"One of the biggest risks with toasters is leaving them on for too long after use. Even when the toaster is no longer in operation, it can continue to generate heat, which can lead to overheating and potentially starting a fire.
“This is especially dangerous if the toaster’s lifter remains stuck in the 'off' position, causing the appliance to stay on longer than it should. To prevent this, always make sure to turn off and unplug your toaster as soon as you're finished using it.
"If your toaster begins to smoke, it doesn’t always mean there’s an immediate danger, but it is important not to ignore it. Smoke can be caused by accumulated dust, grease, or even factory coatings. If this happens, it’s best to let it burn off, but always check for any signs of malfunction or damage."
What to do if your toaster catches fire
"If your toaster catches fire, it's important to act quickly and calmly. Unplugging the toaster immediately cuts off the power and prevents the fire from spreading. Using a fire extinguisher or fire blanket is the safest way to smother the flames. Never fan the fire, as this will only make it worse."
Replace after 6-8 years
"Toasters have an average lifespan of 6 to 8 years, so replacing an old or damaged toaster is key to having a safe kitchen. If you notice any discolouration or signs of wear, it’s time for a replacement."