Why every Kenyan kitchen needs a fire extinguisher: Mary Wangari’s story after a devastating blaze

A working smoke detector is also advisable; there are wired or battery smoke detectors. It also serves as an early warning system, alerting you to the presence of smoke or fire before it becomes unmanageable.
When Mary Wangari plugged in her fridge using a faulty fridge guard, she got from downtown, she had no idea she was setting the stage for disaster.
Within minutes, what began as a minor electrical spark turned into a raging fire that devoured her kitchen when she slept, her appliances, cabinets, walls, everything.
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All that remained were scorched walls and the smell of smoke.
“I didn’t have a fire extinguisher. I never thought I needed one,” said Wangari, recalling the moment her home went up in flames.
“By the time I realised what was happening, it was too late. We had to use water to set the fire off.”
The hidden danger in every home
Kitchens are one of the most fire-prone areas in any house. With a combination of cooking gas, oils, electrical appliances, and flammable items like kitchen towels and plastics, one small malfunction can quickly become life-threatening.
According to Nairobi County Fire and Rescue Services, at least 3 in every 5 domestic fires start in the kitchen, often triggered by faulty wiring, gas leaks, or unattended cooking.
The role of a fire extinguisher
Experts stress that a fire extinguisher is not a luxury; it is an essential safety tool.
“A kitchen fire can spread rapidly. A fire extinguisher allows you to act in the first 60 seconds, which are critical. Without one, your only option is to run,” says Joseph Mutua, a fire safety trainer based in Nairobi.
Fire extinguishers specifically rated for kitchen use, typically Class B (flammable liquids) and Class C (electrical fires), are designed to handle oil fires, gas leaks, and electrical faults. A CO₂ or dry powder extinguisher is ideal for most homes.
A costly mistake
Wangari’s experience is a cautionary tale. The fridge guard that sparked the fire cost less than Sh800, the damage, however, was estimated at over Sh100,000, including repairs, replacements, and lost belongings.
An authentic fridge-guard costs around Sh 1,300 to Sh2,500. And a basic fire extinguisher costs between Sh3,000 and Sh6,000, depending on size and type.
“I used to think fire extinguishers were for businesses and hotels,” she said. “Now, I know better. I had to learn the hard way. I saw people putting out a fire with water, and that is not the safest option, especially if you have no access to the main switch. ”
Fire safety experts recommend that every kitchen be equipped with a 1kg or 2kg fire extinguisher, securely mounted in an easy-to-reach location. This is especially important in households where multiple people, including family members, domestic staff, or frequent visitors, have access to the kitchen.
In the event of a fire, quick access to an extinguisher can make all the difference in preventing injuries and limiting damage.
A working smoke detector is also advisable; there are wired or battery smoke detectors. It also serves as an early warning system, alerting you to the presence of smoke or fire before it becomes unmanageable.
You are also advised to have a regular inspection of electrical appliances and sockets. Ensure you have proper ventilation near gas cylinders and stoves. In fact, some experts recommend having the cylinder outside for safety purposes.
Members of the household should have clear instructions on how to use fire safety equipment in the house.
“A fire doesn’t announce itself. It happens in seconds, often when you least expect it,” Wangari advised. “Don’t wait to become a victim. Get a fire extinguisher. Learn how to use it. It might save your home or your life.”
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