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Two separate incidents in Kent have prompted a warning from pet owners and fire services about the dangers of leaving hobs unattended and accessible to animals. In both cases, cats are believed to have turned on hobs, leading to fires.
In Rochester, two five-month-old kittens caused a fire after being left unsupervised in the kitchen. While their owner was doing chores, the kittens are thought to have turned on the hob, igniting items left on the surface. The owner, alerted by the smoke alarm, evacuated the kittens and called emergency services. Firefighters contained the blaze to the kitchen.
The owner urged others,
“I just want to warn people about what can happen as I never thought my kittens could turn on the hob. I’ll be making sure to keep my hobs clear of items and turned off at the wall and would advise others too as well!”
Just days before, a similar incident occurred in Herne Bay in which a cat, while searching for treats, is believed to have jumped onto the counter and turned on the hob, igniting a tray and bread left on the surface. The resident, awakened by smoke alarms, extinguished the small fire before it could spread.
“I didn’t even think this could happen,” the resident commented, “but I won’t be leaving anything on my hob again!”
Kent Fire and Rescue Service reports that in 2024, they have already attended 12 incidents where pets are suspected of causing kitchen fires and it highlight the importance of keeping hobs clear of flammable materials and ensuring they are switched off at the wall when not in use.
Pet owners are strongly advised to take precautions to prevent their animals from accessing cooking surfaces.