Slow Cooker / Crock Pot Fire Safety

Crock Pot Slow Cooker
A Crock-Pot brand slow cooker

Cooking is the leading cause of home fires in the United States, starting almost half of all fires.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) says that slow cookers are generally safe, but can still be a fire hazard. According to NFPA there were an average of only 70 cooking fires involving slow cookers between 2011 and 2015 in the United States – with zero deaths reported.

Here are some tips to use your slow cooker safely:

  • Follow the manufacturer’s instruction on where and how to use your slow cooker
  • Unplug the Crock Pot when not in use
  • Place your slow cooker on a flat, heat-safe surface
  • Keep the Crockpot away from towels, napkins, curtains and anything that can burn. Keep at least six inches away from the wall.
  • Keep the slow cooker away from your sink and other water sources
  • Check the Crockpot’s cord and plug for any damage before every use. This can be a fire hazard.
  • Make sure the lid is on while cooking. Without a lid the liquid could boil away, which could cause the slow cooker to overheat and possibly create a fire.
  • Don’t plug the slow cooker into an extension cord or power strip/surge protector.

But wait! There’s more!

  • Be careful with (or avoid) second-hand slow cookers. They could be damaged/unsafe. Old models might not have safety features like auto-shutoff.
    On the TV show “This Is US”, a second-hand Crock-Pot was the cause of a fire which led to Jack Pearson’s death.
    Signs that your slow cooker is old and should be replaced include: The electric cord is wrapped in fabric, the insert is attached to the base rather than removable, and there’s a large gap between the lid and insert. See this article from The Kitchn for more details.
  • Make sure the smoke detectors in your house are working.
  • Don’t overload outlets (for example, if you’re using a microwave or toaster at the same time, avoid plugging them into the same outlet/circuit).

Can I leave a crock pot on when I asleep or not home?
Yes, most experts say it’s safe to do this as long as you follow the safety tips above. That said, you still might not want to leave your slow cooker on when nobody’s home.