Leaving a stove top burner on for 12 hours can be a potentially dangerous situation, and it's important to take immediate action to ensure safety. Here are the steps you should follow:
Turn Off the Stove: If you haven't already done so, immediately turn off the stove to stop the flow of gas or electricity to the burner.
Check for Gas Odor: If you have a gas stove and you smell gas, do not attempt to turn off the stove. Instead, leave the area immediately and call your gas company or emergency services to report a gas leak. Gas leaks can be extremely hazardous and require immediate attention.
Ventilate the Area: Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate and dissipate any potential buildup of gases or fumes.
Check for Smoke or Fire: Look around the stove area for any signs of smoke or fire. If you see smoke or if a fire has started, follow proper fire safety protocols, such as using a fire extinguisher if it is safe to do so, or evacuate the premises and call emergency services.
Check for Overheated Utensils or Materials: If you used the burner for cooking and left utensils or materials on it, check to see if they are overheated or damaged. Remove any items that may pose a fire risk.
Monitor for Symptoms: If the stove was left on for a long time, there is a possibility of the release of carbon monoxide (CO) gas, especially if you have a gas stove. CO is odorless and colorless, but it can be deadly in high concentrations. Watch for symptoms of CO poisoning in yourself and others, such as dizziness, headache, weakness, nausea, vomiting, or confusion. If you suspect CO poisoning, leave the area immediately and seek fresh air. If symptoms are severe or persistent, seek medical attention.
Learn from the Incident: To prevent similar incidents in the future, make it a habit to double-check that all burners and the oven are turned off after cooking. Consider using a timer or setting reminders to ensure you remember to turn off the stove.
If you are uncertain about the safety of your home or feel uncomfortable dealing with the situation, do not hesitate to contact your local fire department or emergency services for assistance. They can assess the situation and provide appropriate guidance to ensure your safety and the safety of others.