Since the beginning of 2026, 4,876 fires have been registered in Kazakhstan's residential sector. More than half (50.6%) occurred due to violations of the rules for installation and operation of electrical equipment, according to the Ministry of Emergency Situations. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
The total number of residential fires decreased by 12.5% compared to the same period last year. According to the Ministry, electrical equipment accounts for about 2,500 cases. Another 18.4% are related to violations of fire safety requirements during the installation and operation of stove heating.
«A kitchen fire can start in a matter of seconds. An unattended stove, overheated oil or a faulty electrical appliance can quickly turn a small ignition into a serious fire,» the Ministry warns.
If oil catches fire
The main rule: do not pour water on burning oil. Water instantly evaporates and can throw the burning oil, causing the fire to spread. You need to turn off the stove, if it is safe to do so, and cover the cookware with a lid to cut off air access.
A burning pot or pan must not be moved. It should be left covered until completely cooled. If the fire spreads, you need to leave the room and call the fire service on 101 or 112.
If an electrical appliance catches fire
First, disconnect the appliance from the mains if it can be done safely. Equipment under voltage must not be extinguished with water. If smoke appears or the fire spreads, do not try to tackle it yourself: close the door to the room, leave the apartment and warn people nearby. Do not use the elevator, and do not go back for belongings.
Prevention
The Ministry advises not to leave cooking food unattended and to keep towels, potholders and other combustible materials away from the stove. Electrical wiring and household appliances should be checked regularly. Families with children should block children's access to the stove and hot cookware.