On Monday December 17th at 8:35 pm, Bedford Hills Volunteers were dispatched to Railroad Avenue for a commercial fire alarm. Car 2032 and 2033 arrived on scene within minutes and immediately noticed a odor of smoke emanating from the multiple dwelling. The occupant was located outside the structure and after a brief interview, stated the kitchen was on fire. Car 2033 performed a 360 size up of the building and notified Command of heavy smoke in the structure. The alarm was upgraded to a structural assignment bringing in additional resources. Engine 199 arrived on scene moments later, crew members stretched an 1-3/4" cross-lay to the front door while the chauffeur secured a positive water source. Engine 199 made entry into the residence and stated the fire had been knocked down by the homeowner with an ABC Dry Chemical Extinguisher, a heavy smoke condition remained. Tower Ladder 57 searched the fire building and adjoining residences, assisting individuals with evacuation. EMS was requested to the scene for one patient with smoke inhalation. Bedford Hills units cleared the scene at 9:24 pm.

What you should know about home cooking safety

Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the stove or stovetop.
Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains — away from your stovetop.

If you have a cooking fire

Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.
Safety considerations for cooking with oil

Safety considerations for cooking with oil

Always stay in the kitchen when frying on the stovetop.
Keep an eye on what you fry. If you see wisps of smoke or the oil smells, immediately turn off the burner and/or carefully remove the pan from the burner. Smoke is a danger sign that the oil is too hot.
Heat the oil slowly to the temperature you need for frying or sautéing.
Add food gently to the pot or pan so the oil does not splatter.
Always cook with a lid beside your pan. If you have a fire, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner. Do not remove the cover because the fire could start again. Let the pan cool for a long time. Never throw water or use a fire extinguisher on the fire.
If the fire does not go out or you don’t feel comfortable sliding a lid over the pan, get everyone out of your home. Call the fire department from outside.