Which action increases the risk of fire in the kitchen?

Leaving cooking food unattended significantly increases the risk of fire in the kitchen because it allows hazardous situations to develop without immediate intervention. When food is left cooking, especially when using oil or high heat, it can easily overheat, resulting in flames. Potential flare-ups can occur when food spills or ignites, and without an attentive cook to manage the situation, the risk of a minor issue escalating into a full-blown fire increases considerably.

In contrast, actions like using a timer, keeping dish towels away from the stove, and clearing clutter around cooking areas all contribute to safer cooking practices. A timer helps remind cooks when food needs attention, reducing the temptation to leave it unattended. Keeping dish towels away from the stove minimizes the risk of them catching fire from heat or flames. Clearing clutter creates a safer cooking environment, making it easier to manage pots, pans, and culinary tools without obstruction, further reducing the potential for mishaps that could lead to a fire.