The airfryer that caused the blaze at the student accommodation. (Image: Nationwide Sprinklers LTD)
Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS) has sounded the alarm on air fryers after one sparked a blaze at a student block. The concerning incident involved an air fryer that, while unwatched, melted and ignited in the communal kitchen of a Lenton accommodation complex.
The fire brigade was called to the scene around 10pm on Tuesday, February 11. However, the domicile’s sprinkler system had already doused the flames when they arrived.
While all students were safely evacuated, rescue personnel administered aid for smoke inhalation to one individual.
In light of the incident, NFRS group manager Chris Emmott warned about the potential risks posed by air fryers. He said: “Many families across Nottinghamshire own an air fryer, so it is crucial that users are aware of the fire risks that may come with it.
“We are seeing an increase in fires involving air fryers, and we have attended nine in the last 10 months, so we are urging families to use them safely. Appliances such as air fryers should never be left unattended when in use, and when using them, we advise that they are in a ventilated area and not used under a cupboard or overhead cabinet.”
“Never overfill them, clean it after every use, and never plug an air fryer, or any appliance for that matter, into an extension lead.”
This advice comes after a series of minor fires, with Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service revealing that it’s the fourth incident they’ve tackled this year.
Mr Emmott said: “We are thankful that this building had a working sprinkler system in place. This could have been a much worse situation, but thanks to the prompt response from the sprinklers, we were able to extinguish the fire quickly and keep everyone safe.”