Hot Oil Blamed in Salem Kitchen Fire

"Firefighters aggressively attacked the fire and kept it contained to the kitchen area before it could extend into the attic and the remainder of the home" - Chris Riffle, Salem Fire

Photo courtesy: Chris Riffle/Salem Fire

(SALEM) - A Salem family got a quick lesson in how fast a kitchen fire can spread Monday night. Salem firefighters responded to a home at 4793 Lone Oak Rd. SE just after 8:30 PM, extinguishing a fire that started with overheated cooking oil.

Salem Fire's Chris Riffle says the resident, Mary Huwe, was cooking dinner for her 12-year old grandson when the oil she was heating became too hot, and created flames. The flames quickly leaped up the back of the stove and onto the ceiling of the kitchen. Mary and her grandson left the home as she called 9-1-1.

According to Captain Joe Terleski with Salem Fire, the first arriving engines saw light smoke coming from the back side of the home and they could hear crackling and popping sounds, indicating fire involvement.

Riffle says firefighters aggressively attacked the fire and kept it contained to the kitchen area before it could extend into the attic and the remainder of the home.

The Red Cross was called to assist the family who was renting the home with housing accommodations. Damage to the home was estimated to be $60,000. There were no injuries due to a safe evacuation of the home.

If you would like to assist this unfortunate family, visit the Red Cross in West Salem or email Margaret Sanner at: margarets@redcross-salem.org.