When it comes to automatic stovetop fire extinguishers there are two options- a cheaper one, that does not turn the stove itself off, or more expensive one that does actually turn the stove off. Now keep in mind that the price difference is significant (about 20 times), so you need to know your budget and finances to decide which one is the right solution for your family.
Automatic Stovetop Fire Extinguisher Without Stove Turn Off (StoveTop FireStop)
These automatic fire extinguisher canisters attach magnetically in the range hood over the stove. When a stovetop fire occurs and the flame reaches the canisters, the fire suppressing powder is automatically released onto the fire. After the stove has been turned off and is cool to the touch, clean up with a vacuum and wet cloth.
If the person you care for has a microwave above the stove instead of a rangehood, you’ll need a different product. Before you buy you should know that the range hood must have an open space on both sides of the exhaust, so the product can be attached – otherwise, you’ll need to replace the range hood. Look for a model with a dementia-friendly quiet fan and clearance of 24 to 32 inches between the stovetop and the rangehood.
You’ll need to give the rangehood a good scrub before installing. These canisters are fairly easy to install – no tools are required – but you need good finger dexterity to attach the magnet to the can.
PROS
- Automatically dispenses in a fire – person with dementia does not need to know how to use it.
- When activated, a very loud pop occurs, which can alert a person to the fire.
- Non-toxic and easy to install – cans are attached to the underside of the range hood with a built-in magnet.
- No maintenance required – only needs to be replaced every 5 years.
CONS
- Does NOT turn off the stove – the fire may reignite if the heat source is not shut off.
- Not intended for deep fat frying – when activated, the device could cause grease fires to splash, spreading the fire.
CAUTION
This product only dispenses onto the stovetop surface and only when the flames reach the cans.
- If flammable materials nearby the stove catch on fire, a regular fire extinguisher is needed to put out the flames.
- A person with dementia living alone may not know how to turn the stove off or how to clean up the discharged powder if a fire occurs.
- Before usage, instruct the person on what to do if a fire occurs; also leave written instructions.
- If a fire occurs, take action – more supervision is required.
- Regularly assess that it’s still safe for the care receiver to cook independently. At some point, all people with dementia will need to be supervised in the kitchen.
Automatic Stovetop Fire Extinguisher – With Stove Turn-off (Guardian Safety)
This fire extinguishing system automatically puts out the fire and turns off the stove’s gas or electricity. When a stovetop fire occurs, a non-toxic solution is released onto the fire over a 90-second period, forming a protective layer that prevents the fire from re-igniting. This product must be installed in a nearby cabinet and in the rangehood above the stove by a licensed technician. You can read more about it here.
This product only dispenses onto the stovetop surface. A regular fire extinguisher is needed to put out any nearby fire(s).
This product is best used with a caregiver present, as certain procedures need to be followed during and after a fire. Though non-toxic, the solution is classified as an irritant and rubber gloves should be worn for cleanup. This model is recommended for residential use, as it installs relatively easily and has low maintenance – only a yearly battery change plus normal cleaning.
