"Black Friday" Fire Guts Kitchen

[bobmark226]

I am, first of all, thankful that I'm alive and unharmed, if still badly shaken and that nothing of personal importance was destroyed or lost. Fortunately, too, Lucky was in the country with a friend for the weekend.

Sometime between eight and nine last night, my toaster assumed a life of its own and caught fire. I was in my bedroom at the other end of the apartment, watching TV in my boxers, which is all I wore through the next hour or two of ordeal until I could get back in for clothes. I smelled smoke, went to the kitchen where I had cabbage (of all things!) roasting in the convection and saw flames shooting out of the toaster, which is on the opposite side on my work counter. I tried to get baking soda, but it was in the cabinet directly over the flames, then the flame jumped to a dishtowel in the bowl of my Kitchenaid. I knew I was in trouble and went to call, got connected with the FD when I lost power and phone service. Fortunately, my upstairs neighbor called at the smell of smoke and the firemen got there quickly, but of course have to take the stairs because the elevators locked, so it was a while, and by then, flames had taken over the kitchen. I was in the hallway because I was being overcome by the smoke, in a fire stairwell right outside my door.

There was a huge crash as they knocked over a breakfront that was filled with my glass collection and some china. The firemen were very kind and concerned the whole time, asking if I was okay, wanting for me to go get checked, but I was so far outside myself watching all this unrealistically, I didn't give it a thought. The only negative was the investigating fireman practically accused me of starting, even setting, it and refused to believe that nothing on the line that blew was on!

After it was out, neighbors turned up to help, offer food, drink, showers...I could weep to think how kind people were and as much as I've thanked them, I can never thank their kindnesses enough. One woman I've known for years literally took me over, took me to her place to use the phone and help.

The kitchen is totally destroyed except for the fridge. The gas was turned off but I can't get to it anyway and I have power throughout the apartment excepting the kitchen (fridge is on a different power line and okay, thank goodness.) Yes, we are insured and there is a professional cleaning crew trying to give me back my bathroom and dining room (center of the apartment) and doing very well so far. The kilims are probably ruined from water and soot, but my bedroom is okay as is the living room and empty front bedroom, where I will set up a temporary microwave and :rolleyes: toaster oven. I guess I'll be living on Boca burgers pretty much. The insurance people come on Monday.

All the windows were opened and I slept under tons of blankets and clothed and have so far had nothing but peanut butter sandwiches and coffee and a chill has set into my bones, so I came to the office to clear my head and get away from it. (Isn't it weird when you realize you don't have a can opener you can use?)

So, after the mess is cleared up so I can at least shower and get water, the new kitchen will be done. It was in the plans to do this this year and I've procrastinated because I didn't want to face it. Now, it's probably even going to be paid for.

There is no small irony in that it was Good Friday as I was also born on a Good Friday and also that on Ash Wednesday, 1962 I had my very first New York apartment totally gutted by fire while I was out.

One other thing I have to say is if you don't have a fire extinguisher or two or three in your home, get one. This could have been stopped early and fast.

Anyway, I need lunch now....see you Monday, I guess, but don't expect any "Weekend Reviews." :(

Bob

[Kay Henderson]

Oh my goodness, I am so sorry, Bob! I am just really thankful that you are OK.

Kay

[Canice]

Bob, I am so sorry to hear this! In addition to the sadness and frustration of not having your kitchen...gosh, losing your glass and china...the fright of the whole event....I am so, so sorry.
Thank goodness you were awake and able to respond quickly, though. And thank goodness you are unharmed. Still..... :( :( :(

[Grace]

I'm so sorry, Bob. Very glad to hear that you weren't hurt. What a scary, awful ordeal.

This is my biggest fear - fires that start out of nowhere for no apparent reason. I have two dogs and I worry constantly that this could happen when I'm not home and my dogs wouldn't be able to get out :( .

But something good always comes of something bad, so just look forward to that new kitchen you'll be getting!

[lindrusso]

Wow, what an ordeal. Glad to hear you are okay. :) Sounds like you are handling this a positive attitude. Hope things come back together quickly for you.

Good idea about the extinguisher. I think that I will run out and get a couple (we have one, but it's old) and check our smoke alarms while I'm at it. That can be one positive thing that resulted from your fire, right? :)

Alysha :)

[Lauren]

I'm so glad you're OK. Very scary! I was just wondering what happened to the extinguisher I used to have. If I can't find it, I'm buying a new one.

[MNGirlTX]

Bob - I'm mostly a lurker, but wanted to say that I am glad you weren't hurt...and how sorry I am that you had this happen.

Lori

[Curleytop]

UNREAL! I am glad that you were not hurt! All the material things can be replaced (hopefully by the insurance company).
Good Luck!

[Laura]

Oh my gosh! I am so sorry that this happened to you, but am thankful that you weren't hurt.

[Jazzmatazz49]

I know from experience how awful it is to lose possessions you've had or collected for years. I'm so sorry for that, and happy that no one was hurt.

[TitlePending]

Bob ~ Likewise and ditto to all the above! I guess we will all be avid readers of your kitchen re-design commentaries. You sure have the right attitude. Linda ~

[irishspy]

My god, what a terrifying experience. I'm so glad you're unhurt. I hope the insurance covers your damages.

Fire is my #1 fear in the house, and I double and triple check to make sure nothing was left on before leaving, even if only for a short while. While I have a general purpose fire extinguisher* in the kitchen, I think I should get another for each bedroom. Better safe than sorry. :eek:

*(Very affordable at Costco, btw)

[ErinM]

I am so sorry this happened. I'm glad you and your dog are OK...everything else can be replaced.

[Pony]

Bob,

As everyone else already said, I'm so glad you are safe and the fire did not spread. Thank goodness for the kind people in your building. I love how people come together in time of need.

Good luck with everything.

Michelle

[tbb113]

Bob: Glad that you are safe and sound. Everything else can be replaced.

I know that I'm neurotic, but I NEVER leave small electric appliances with heating elements (toasters, hair dryers, etc) plugged in just to help prevent these types of accidents.

[Natasha]

Bob, sorry to hear about your ordeal. I'm glad, though, that you're safe and that people have been so kind.

Natasha

[cinnamon_queen]

So sorry to hear about all of this! I'm just glad that you are okay. Let us know about the new kitchen when you get a chance! At least there is something positive out of it all (and the fact that you are unharmed!)

[schuh]

How awful and scary and sad.

I've never heard of a toaster that's not in use catching fire. Very scary. It would never occur to me to unplug such things on a day-to-day basis.

I'm glad you weren't hurt, physically at least.

Strangely, I was thinking just last night that I didn't know where our fire extinguisher was or how to use it. Guess this will prod me into taking care of this situation.

Hang in there ... I've never had a fire but I've been in circumstances where I'm unable to cook. Very frustrating for those who enjoy doing so (which you clearly do). It's too bad insurance wouldn't pay for you to eat out at some of those fabulous NYC restaurants...

[cher48603]

Bob,

So sorry to hear about your fire. Glad you weren't injured and hopefully it won't take too long to get your life back to normal.

DH's cousin had a fire yesterday also. Fortunately there were no injuries there either.

[SPITFIRE]

So sorry to hear about your loss. I'm glad to hear that you are safe and unharmed. Please take care and know that we are all here for you in the days and weeks to come.

[Canice]

Originally posted by schuh
How awful and scary and sad.

I've never heard of a toaster that's not in use catching fire. Very scary. It would never occur to me to unplug such things on a day-to-day basis.


Several years ago my mother told me that she saw something on television about toasters spontaneously bursting into flames and that I should leave mine unplugged when not in use. Frankly, like a lot of people, I'd hit burnout (ack, so to speak) on all the dire predictions and warnings my mother had gleaned from daytime TV. Guess that one's a keeper.

[lonetree1353]

Bob...so sorry about your fire but glad you were not hurt. My biggest fear about having a fire in your home is the pictures that can't be replaced of family and friends. Most other things can be replaced. Nice that your neighbours came together to help you. Hopefully when your new kitchen is in you will be able to put these awful memories behind you. Take care.

[sneezles]

Bob,
I am so very sorry to hear of your disaster but thankful that you are OK. So very scary to think that small appliances can ruin things like that but we also keep them unplugged when not in use. I hope that the cleanup and re-do go smoothly.

[Aubergine]

bob, i am so sorry for your heartache, and i know a little about this one, so i empathize as well.

back in october 2000, on a saturday night at 9 pm, a friend and i were watching a movie when the smoke detectors went off. we ran to the kitchen to find the stove area in flames. fortunately, i had a 6-qt pot soaking in the sink, so i threw that at the flames while my friend called 911...

here is where i totally identify with you: the fire was, like yours, a case of "spontaneous combustion." in my case, it appears the vent hood was the culprit, but even the arson investigators never decided exactly the cause.

nonetheless, i've had waking nightmares ever since...my kids were gone, and ordinarily i might have been out for the evening as well, in which case, the entire house would have burned.

i've read articles about toasters catching fire while unused, and i strongly suggest that you: get a good lawyer! and, 2, get hold of an independent insurance claims person, who will (if s/he's anyone like mine), get you 4 times the settlement your insurance company will 'offer' you, for a small percentage fee. in my case, the company offered about $2,000, but the negotiator got me $11,000, and i netted about $8,500.

small comfort, i know but worth looking into, once you're over the shock of it all. and yeah, my kitchen was unusable for a few weeks---total bummer for a foodie.

hth,

suzanne

[irishspy]

Related to Bob and his self-immolating toaster, I did a Google search on "toaster" and "fire" and found this:

Consumer complaints about Black & Decker toaster (http://www.consumeraffairs.com/homeowners/blackdecker_toaster.html)

Apparently, some toasters fail to switch off completely. I wonder if my toaster-oven is the same way? Maybe I'll start unplugging it.... :eek:

[newcook]

Bob, I'm so sorry to hear about the kitchen fire. I'm glad you are well and safe now. It must have been frightening. Hope all goes well with the cleanup and repairs.

Daniele

[clairea]

Bob, I am sorry for your loss, but am so glad you are okay! Everyone please do get fire extinguishers and learn how to use them. We almost had a similar situation the other day when DH left a wooden spoon too close to the gas burner:rolleyes: but were able to put it out with the fire extinguisher (which is hanging on the wall like we are some kind of institutional kitchen, but having had a house destroyed by fire I am very cautious).

I never even thought about small appliances spontaneously combusting. I am going to start unplugging them.

Claire

[Ohioan]

Oh, Bob, I'm so sorry about your ordeal -- but so glad you're okay!

Cheers,
Phoebe

[SueK]

Bob- I'm so sorry to hear about the fire, but I'm glad that you and your dog are okay. Also glad to hear that your neighbors helped you out last night. I'm sure you have a lot of paperwork headaches ahead of you, but glad that you are unharmed, so hang in there!

[funniegrrl]

Bob Bob Bob ...

How awful. How wonderful the damage wasn't worse. How WONDERFUL that you were not hurt.

My father is a retired fire chief, so I grew up with stories of fires. I've smelled the smell on my father's uniform and heard him cough through the night after inhaling smoke. So, I've never lived through a fire in my personal space, but I have a hint of the aftermath.

Any diaster like this is going to cause grief, even though you are OK physically and everything is fixable. Don't be in a hurry to "get over it" -- let your feelings happen and give yourself time to get back to normal.

Because of my childhood I have fire extinguisher, ready but stored AWAY from any common source of fire. But, think of how many people here will read your story and buy and extinguisher, relocate the one they have, etc., as you've already seen. I don't really believe that every cloud has a silver lining, that good always comes from misfortune. The ends don't justify your suffering, but perhaps remembering how many people you've enlightened by sharing your story will help.

[Terrytx]

another heart-felt sorry here. Try to look on the bright side as much as possible (yeah, right) and start planning for you new and improved kitchen, and keep us informed. It will be could be fun to keep up with your progress.

[Lrimerman]

Bob,

I am so sorry for your ordeal. I am so glad you are ok, as are your loved ones (human and pet). I always enjoy your post and hope everything is back up and running soon.

The same thing happened at my parent's house. A friend was staying at their house and used the toaster oven (Black and Decker and an undermount kind) and turned it off. Suddenly they smelled smoke and it had just burst into flames. Luckily, they mangaged to put out the fire and there wasn't too much damage.

You may want to look into the toaster oven thing like someone else posted. Also, the independent insurance adjuster is not a bad idea.

Hope it is all resolved.

Lisa

[shoyski]

Bob, thank you for sharing with all of us in the midst of your crisis. Think of how many you have reached and how many of us have scratched our heads, saying, "Gee, now I'll unplug my toasted oven and get some extinguishers." I will be one of them.

I do hope the aftermath mess is quickly cleaned up and you can start anew on your dream kitchen. :)

[gertdog]

Oh no, how awful! I'm so glad you are okay and that you had those wonderful neighbors to help you through the ordeal. I remember that tiny but oh-so-well-used kitchen from when we visited during one of the NYC klatches, and also that breakfront with the china and glassware. I'm so sorry for the things you lost, but glad that you and Lucky are okay.

[Luvs2Cook]

So sorry to hear this Bob! That must have been scary! I'm glad no one was hurt though.

[Beth]

Bob, I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. What a shock to have to suddenly deal with all these things. I just noticed a fire extinguisher in a bow where it didn't belong in the garage. So ironic.

I'm glad you got to the office to let us know and send you our best wishes and virtual hugs. Most important is that you and everyone else is okay, you do have insurance, and you will be able to rebuild the kitchen and make wonderful things to thank your neighbors with. Hope you can replace the china and crystal, but my patterns are all discontinued so I know that isn't always possible. Maybe something new to go with the new kitchen if not.

I would look into the toaster problem -- especially if you had a Black & Decker. You might be able to make a claim against B&D for anything that might not be covered by your insurance.

Take care of yourself, and hang in there. Even if everything goes smooth as silk, it's going to take a while.

[Missi]

Just wanted to say sorry for your loss as well, and that you have definately prompted me to unplug the toaster and get a better fire extinguisher!

[Lynn B]

<<<<oh Bob>>>>

SO sorry to hear of your horrible, frightening ordeal. I am so thankful and relieved that you are OK. Hang in there, my friend.

Lynn

[SusanL]

What a nightmare, but so glad that you are safe. I unplugged my toaster after reading your post! But we realized that the fire extinguisher is right next to the stove, we wouldn't be able to get to it in time. Hopefully you will be able to renovate your kitchen in exactly the way you want it-trying to look positively!!:) Our best to you.

[mbrogier]

I'm so sorry, Bob. I hope your new kitchen can be finished soon so you can get back to normal. I am so glad you were awake when the fire started.

I have extra kitchen gadgets, etc. when the time comes and you need stuff, I'll be happy to send you some of my things. (they're not old, rusty, things, but duplicates, etc.) I know your insurance will pay for your kitchen, but the money should be used for cool stuff, not little gadgets or pyrex.

I never thought of not being able to REACH the baking soda/fire extinguisher to extinguish the fire. My extinguisher in under the sink, right across from the range. I think I need another extinguisher in another room for backup. I'm sorry it took your tragedy for all of us to learn what to do. I also hope you get money from the toaster people. LOTS of money. :o

[MISSINDI]

Oh wow, Bob, I am so sorry to hear about the fire, but am really glad you're ok. My dh is a volunteer firefighter and I'm paranoid about house fires, so we make a good pair with smoke alarms on every floor, and the requisite fire extinguishers. That said, I'm guilty of keeping the B&D toaster oven plugged in, but can guarantee from your post, I won't be doing that any more!

I'm sure this has you shaken up beyond belief, but hope you're hanging in there ... and best wishes for a quick new kitchen rebuild to get you back to weekend reviews and Jack Bishop cooking. :D

[wallycat]

This was all so surreal reading this.
Bob, I am so glad you are OK and that most of your home survived. I'm sorry for the anguish and stress you will be dealing with now and I will miss your reviews ;)

Hang in there and hope your dream kitchen emerges from the rubble.

[MikeC]

Bob,

I'm so sorry to hear about the fire, but I'm very glad to hear that you're OK. I, too, have no fire extinguishers in my home. Maybe I (and many of us) can learn from your experience, since you shared your ordeal with us.

Mike

[ellen6242]

Bob...I'm so sorry for the ordeal you had to go through, and I'm happy that you're okay. I agree with all of the other posters that I must go out and buy fire extinguishers and unplug all of my countertop appliances.

If there is anything you need, please let us know.

Ellen

[KathrynY]

Oh Bob - I am so sorry that this happened to you. How truly frightening. I am very glad to hear that you and Lucky are ok, and send my best wishes for a speedy resolution to all of the insurance and renovation issues to come.

[gabbyh]

Oh my goodness Bob! I was searching for your name to thank you for the info on the Overnight Strata, and came upon this thread:(

One of my biggest fears...electrical fire...I just made sure we had an extinguisher near by...thank God you are OK...I will surely miss your w/e reviews!

~Gail

[swquilts]

(((((BOB)))))

Holy cow!! I'm so glad to hear you are OK and your apt is not a total loss.

What can we do for YOU?? I've got more kitchen than I will ever need. Spices replaced?? You name it, we've got it! (truly, we have tons for sausage making) Oregano, fennel, thyme, garlic, 3 kinds of chile powder, etc.....TONS!! Why buy it when I'll be more than happy to share. I have a source for the smaller bottles too, albetit plastic with shaker lids.

Take care of yourself first friend! :)

[McSix]

Bob, thanks for telling us your story. Be sure that you've prevented some tragedies by sharing yours. Start planning that beautiful new kitchen.

[Kiwismommy]

Bob, I am truly sorry for you and your recent ordeal but very happy that you are safe.

[chefjon]

So sorry, also, for your ordeal and loss. I can't imagine what it must be like. That said, there is good to come out of it(at least for me). Your misfortune made me think about my own situation and went to check my fire extinguisher in the kitchen. First, it was under the cook island(that's gonna change). Secondly, it was totally discharged. Without your posting, I probably would not have checked it anytime soon, so that gets remedied tomorrow. Again, sorry for your loss but you have helped many.

[bobmark226]

Thanks, all, for your kind words. I appreciate the suggestions here about contacting an attorney and an independent adjuster and have passed them on to co-owner and best friend, Tony, for action tomorrow.

As many of you who've ever experienced this kind of disaster know, it removes you from the world at large. The city is very busy with holiday vacationers and I'm walking around doing errands that might help create some sense of normalcy wondering what's wrong with them and why they can't see how upset I am.

The cleaners did a terrific job at getting part of the place liveable. Unfortunately, the kitchen has to stay as is until the insurance people are done so although it's closed off with plastic, everything still stinks. The cleaners left behind three massive machines, one pulling the air out with a huge hose, another blowing at the kitchen and a humongous dehumdifier, I guess to prevent mildew.
It sounds like I'm living under a 747, but the smell has improved.

I bought a small microwave and a coffee brewer that brews right into one of those metal 2 cup carriers, plastic plates and flatware, and I've been washing other things in the bathtub after I eat. I feel like a caricature of the old man living in a rooming house. All I need is the hotplate.

Besides being able to finally shower in the evening, I decided I needed to do one thing. I completely stripped the bed, re-washed another set of "smoked" sheets, the blanket and quilt, so at bedtime I felt like I had just slipped into a nice, relaxing sense of normalcy. Amazing how these small things matter!

There has been lots of humor along the way and it's probably what's kept me sane. At one point Friday night, a Red Cross crew arrived to offer services, food, shelter, etc. There were six of them in bright red matching parkas surrounding me in a smoke filled hall. It was so bizarre, I started to laugh and joke with them. But I also thought of you KitchenAid lovers. Who knew these monstrosities were destructible? Mine was right next to the toaster and was thoroughly gutted. The firemen threw it into the bathtub, putting an irremovable black dent in the porcelain, even though it was a shell of its former self! And at one point when I ventured in yesterday to find a possibly useable knife, I looked at a blackened cookbook holder and the singed top sheet of paper said "WW Hot & Sour, WW TOT, SueK, CLBB"! ;)

See you whenever. I lost my glasses in the process and have to see if there's an eyeglass place open anywhere now. I've wearing an old pair with huge lenses that make me look like Uncle Morty in Boca del Vista!

Bob
PS:
Fireman: "Were you roasting peppers? My eyes were burning from something in there."
Me: "No, it was a pile of sliced onions and a bowl of sweet and hot sauce for Chicken Sri cha." (CL 04/05)
:rolleyes:

[Robyn1007]

Oh, Bob, I'm so sorry to hear of your ordeal! You seem to be doing okay, considering the circumstances but please be sure to take care of yourself! I deal on a daily basis with fire victims in my business (furniture rental) and know that it can make even the easiest of tasks and decisions very stressful and there will be many decisions to come. I wish you the best during this time and if you just can't handle it any more, get away for a few days!

Robyn

[greysangel]

Originally posted by bobmark226

Bob
PS:
Fireman: "Were you roasting peppers? My eyes were burning from something in there."
Me: "No, it was a pile of sliced onions and a bowl of sweet and hot sauce for Chicken Sri cha." (CL 04/05)
:rolleyes:

LOL :D :D Ok I know this is not a funny situation, but this made me laugh my arse off! :D :D

Bob I am so sorry to hear about this disaster. I was in a hotel fire when I was in high school during a voice competition of all things (my floor, 10 people died...pretty serious business) and it ranks up there in my top most frightening personal experiences. I remember me after the hospital trip wandering the red cross station in my sooty nightgown just wishing I could wash that darn smell off of me!

Anyhoo..I wish I could offer you an easter meal but my lazy carribbean butt only has the makings for chicken paprikash tonight. You are more than welcome though :cool:

[Molli526]

(((Bob)))

Glad to hear that you are physically OK. Take care.

[littlelion1961]

{{{{{{{{bob}}}}}}}

I'm sooo sorry.

Paula

[Aubergine]

along these lines, there's an AP article this weekend in our papers about a recall of $200-300:eek: :eek: KitchenAid toasters made by Westinghouse that are spontaneousaly combusting.

isn't that a b*tch????? it's one thing for a $10 toaster to self-immolate, but quite another for a $300 one to do so, but these have been.:rolleyes:

moreover, who would've guessed when, fools that they were (imo), alot of persons were gladly paying $300 for a KitchenAid toaster, that was manufactured by Westinghouse, whose appliances are low-end? i mean, if i were gonna buy a pricey toaster, it'd be a Dualit...omg, maybe Westinghouse makes them, too.:D

Emperor's New Clothes, anyone?

[mom2garret]

Bob:
I am so sorry about this horrible fire. Thank god you are alright. As others said, items can be replaced. I wish you well.........
Jodi

[sweetpea]

goodness sakes--how terrifying that must be! i imagine feeling the same way you feel when someone has broken into your home--violated or something along those lines. i would have had to be institutionalized by now so my hat is off to you for being so calm or at least sounding that way :) i feel as though i was there after reading your posts and my first response besides "gasp!" was..."did he lose his cookbooks???" i think we should send-bob-a-replacement-cookbook to help you get your cookbooks back (if you even lost them...maybe you keep them in your bedroom? bathroom? :)) and so you can get some fun mail!!! yes, do let us know if there is anything we can send your way! wishing you a better week this week from the woman who is so anal about toasters it makes her husband's eyes roll daily

[HejazSunKat]

Originally posted by Aubergine
i've read articles about toasters catching fire while unused, and i strongly suggest that you: get a good lawyer!

Not to say that there isn't negligence involved somewhere in the case of Bob's ordeal but I cringe every time I hear people talk about calling the lawyers whenever disaster strikes because I'd like to see us be less of a litigious society.

Bob - What a terrible fright and thank God you and your dog are both ok. I hope you get things resolved quickly and you get your home put back together as soon as possible. As for the china, sure it's a loss, but it's just stuff and the important thing is you weren't hurt but...you know that. Take care.

[SandyM]

I hate to hear of things like this. :(

Bob - glad you're okay. Wishing you good luck getting everything situated and back to normal.

[DmOrtega]

How scary.... Just let us know what you lost and I will be happy to send you a care package. I was just looking at my kitchen stuff today and decided to slim it down. Good thoughts coming from Shoreline,WA.

[CindyWeightWatcher]

Bob,
So glad you're OK and that Lucky was in the country.
It makes you appreciate life! At least you were there
to stop the fire from spreading to other apartments.
Take care and good luck with the renovations.
Cindy

[McSix]

I agree, Bob. Let us throw you a kitchen shower. Since wierd people lurk (might be me on a PMS day), pick a safe address and let us all send a contribution to your new kitchen. I know you've given me good advice a time or two. We'd all love to send you something from our part of the world. It would give us great pleasure to help. Think about it.

[irishspy]

Originally posted by McSix
I agree, Bob. Let us throw you a kitchen shower. Since wierd people lurk (might be me on a PMS day), pick a safe address and let us all send a contribution to your new kitchen. I know you've given me good advice a time or two. We'd all love to send you something from our part of the world. It would give us great pleasure to help. Think about it.

I think that's a great idea. :cool:

[mbrogier]

When you are up to it, I'd love to see you post a list of anything that was destroyed in your breakfront. I love looking for china, etc. and go antiqueing quite a bit. If there was something particular that you were trying to replace, some of us might be able to find them for you. (unfortunately I don't have a lot of money, but I could find it and would help you get it and ship it safely.)


Also, apartments and hotels use these machines to get the smell out of apartments/hotel rooms after smokers have been in there. They work really well. I don't know what they call it, but you might find out and rent one.

[Beth]

Bob, I'm with all those who say let us know how we can help you. I've been thinking and having similar ideas. Tell us what we can do to help. And yes, I absolutely believe in the healing power of hot water and nice clean sheets. :cool:

Do you have a camera handy -- take your own photos of what has been damaged and also look at any photos you have from before the fire so you can remember what you had. I had my house broken into years ago -- I was surprised at how long I kept remembering things that used to be there.

Hang in there. Hope tomorrow goes smoothly on the insurance and that it will be the beginning of each day getting better and easier than the one before.

[ChristieinMB]

I'm truly sorry about your disaster!
I want to be the first to offer to help you out in the kitchen by buying you a new crockpot. I know you will be lost without it! :D :D


Okay, how about a Penzey party?

Christie

[newtricks]

Oh Bob, that's very scary. I'm so sorry! How are you doing now?

Your burning eyes story cracked me up.:)

[donleyk]

(((Bob)))

How frightening indeed. I am glad you are okay.

I would also like to contribute to getting your kitchen back in order so please consider letting us help. You've been a wonderful resource to me and this would be a way I could you back a little.

-Kim

[Gracie]

Bob I am just getting to the board now after a busy weekend. I am so sorry to hear about your kitchen and your ordeal. You do sound upbeat though and that makes me happy.

I would also like to participate in a kitchen shower. Please post some things that you could use now to help you get through the tough times. When your new kitchen is ready we can give you another shower with the fun stuff!

Loren

P.S. That was a really innovative way to get your new kitchen paid for! :D :D :D

[MISSINDI]

Count me in on the Throw Bob a Kitchen Shower ... happy to send whatever I can. :D

[MusicMom]

Bob-

I'm glad you're ok, with your sense of humor intact. That's so scary.

I hope things go smoothly as you put your apartment back together.

Vivian

[cab321]

Glad everyone is ok, sounds like a horrible ordeal. Good luck getting everything back in order - even if it takes a while.

[swquilts]

Bob, how about (when you're up to it) "registering" at Bed, Bath and Beyond, or Penzeys or Cooking.com, etc?

This way you can get what you need and we all won't send you a ladle! ;) :D

Count me in!!

[mom2garret]

A Kitchen Shower - What a GREAT IDEA!!!
Jodi

[Gilgamesh37]

Bob, glad to hear you're okay, so sorry for your losses and the work that's ahead of you. I'm up for the Bob's Kitchen Shower if/when it happens---it's the least I can do in exchange for the potato lentil stew and all the cocktail advice.... :D

[lhall]

(((Bob)))

I'm very glad to hear that you are ok!! I'm happy to see that you are keeping your sprits up, despite the devistating loss of your KA.


Leigh

[Pam Campbell]

Bob,

I was sorry to hear about your fire :( but I am glad that you are ok, did you get your eye glasses replaced? I have borrowed many of your recipes and ideas from the BB and would be glad to help you in any way that I am able to.

Keep the humor in your life and be thinking about that new ka in your future! :D

[Wendy w]

Bob, am so very sorry to hear about the fire, but am glad to hear that you are ok. Take care of yourself and keep us posted with reports on your remodel.

[linsleyd]

Bob, I'm so glad you are ok. My house burned down nearly three years ago and although it was an experience I do not want to repeat, we were completly overwhelmed by the people that helped us, including the police and fire fighters.

Again, I suggest to everyone to have a fire extinquisher in the kitchen and upstairs, make sure your smoke detectors are working, and please get insurance especially if you are renting!

[cniles]

((Bob)) - just logged in after the holiday weekend to read about your fire. I'm so sorry. Hang in there - lots of hugs coming your way.

[kristalsnow7]

Bob,

I'm so sorry to hear about the horrible fire, but glad you and your dog were unharmed. Please let us know what we can do for you in this time of need.

[Misconduct]

Bob, so sorry to read about the fire. So glad everybody is ok.
We are living with my in-laws who always keep the toaster oven plugged in. I got something to tell 'em now!
Again, I am just glad you made it out ok.
Helen.

[rhondac]

I have chuckled over many of your posts, AND been enlighted by many. I want to add my sorry to the many already offered. I too am glad it wasn't more serious. Warm thoughts.

[NewMrsG]

I will just add my name to the list of people sorry to hear about this but also glad that you're okay - and would be glad to take part in a kitchen shower for you - I think registering is a GREAT idea!

[Angelina]

Hang in there, Bob!! I am in for the Kitchen Shower. And if you need a hot meal, feel free to come over anytime (if you can bring yourself to take the subway all the way to Queens :D ).

Please let me know if I can help you in any way. Maybe I'll make a casserole. Never made one in my life, but there is always a first time...*wanders off to the kitchen looking for cream of mushroom canned soup, fried onions, green beans*

Angela

[Miss Giggles]

Ok this is scaring me. I will leave my toaster oven unplugged because I was one of those people that thought stuff like this didn't happen.

and I am going to get a fire extinguisher too. I have renters insurance but still i don't want it to happen. Funny when I moved in, I was going to by a fire extinguisher and people said, "why?"

[Chelle D]

Originally posted by bobmark226
PS:
Fireman: "Were you roasting peppers? My eyes were burning from something in there."
Me: "No, it was a pile of sliced onions and a bowl of sweet and hot sauce for Chicken Sri cha." (CL 04/05)
:rolleyes:

This too made me chuckle. :)

Bob, I am so sorry about the fire. It must have been a scary experience.


-Michelle

[Valerie226]

Bob, I'm so sorry to hear about your kitchen disaster. Thank goodness no one was hurt! For years my husband has unplugged appliances when we leave , and I will not give him a hard time about it anymore! glad to know that although you have stinky surroundings to deal with, your sense of humor is intact. valerie

[jtoepfert100]

So sorry to hear, Bob, but I'm glad you're still alive and kicking! Perhaps a little Krusty and an oldie, but goodie from Ralphie will brighten your day!

[jmarie]

Gosh, Bob. I am sorry that I missed this thread until today. I do wish you the best and hope that everything gets fixed back to better than what it was before.

I have experienced fire before and everything you said about it, from being detached while watching it flame to the generosity of neighbors rang so true....with the generosity of your neighbors and friends being the one real silver lining to this horrible cloud of smoke.

But even with the insurance covering it, the insurance won't replace everything. If the shower is on, I would love to participate.:D I realize that insurance will fix it, but wouldn't it be wonderful to be able to know how your online friends responded in your time of need. Wouldn't it be fun to pick up this item and say Missindi got me this, or McSix, got me that....I think McSix had a great idea!

Keep us posted, Bob. People are more caring than any of us will ever know.
jmarie

[MISSINDI]

Originally posted by jmarie
I realize that insurance will fix it, but wouldn't it be wonderful to be able to know how your online friends responded in your time of need. Wouldn't it be fun to pick up this item and say Missindi got me this, or McSix got me that....I think McSix had a great idea!

Just goes to show you how people can really rally when something like this happens. With the little sniping that goes on sometimes, particularly on the Other Stuff board, it truly is heartwarming to see. :D

[Searcher]

Bob, I'm so sorry! And I'm very glad you are okay. I hope you find your glasses soon.

I know exactly what you mean about feeling as if everyone should just know! We lost our house, a long time ago...in 1981...but it still feels close. While waiting in a neighbor's house for my father to come and pick us up I stood in a window and watched the house burn. It was like watching television. I couldn't remember if my girls had gone to school that day and had to call the school. I had my father drive us to a drug store so I could get toothpaste and deodorant....the only things we got from the house were my purse and a rocking chair and all I could think of was that we didn't have toothpaste or deodorant. The Red Cross was very helpful as were our neighbors and the fire department. But, in the end, we were amazingly lucky. No-one was hurt, our girls were safe, we were safe and the dogs were safe. Things did become funny after a week or two, and when we'd rebuilt we'd go around in circles trying to figure out if we'd had something we'd been looking for for days before or after the fire.

If there's anything, at all, we can do, please let us know! Again, I'm so glad you're safe!

[colleency]

(((Bob)))

So glad to hear that you're okay. I hope all of your things and normal order is restored to your life quickly.

[lorilei]

Gosh, Bob -
Am late in coming to this thread -- but I just wanted to put forth my sympathies as well.

Glad no one was hurt!! That's the important thing...

[Kismet]

Adding my sympathies. What a scary situation. So glad that it was only "stuff" that got hurt! (((Bob)))

[Sami]

Bob, I just read this and am so sorry for what you went through. But you are lucky that you weren't harmed. Will you have someone check your lines before the new kitchen is put in? Amother thing that you can do is to unplug everything you are not using. A fireman I know unplugs everything whenever he leaves the house. Drives his wife nuts but now I see the validity of it.

Sami

[swquilts]

Wouldn't it be fun to pick up this item and say Missindi got me this, or McSix, got me that....I think McSix had a great idea!

Or, maybe we can start a pool of some sort to at least replace his beloved KitchenAid mixer? I like the Penzey's idea, I doubt the insurance company will replace food....or will they? But then, Penzey's spices are an "investment"!!

[mrswaz]

I'm so glad you're okay Bob! What a thing to read about after being gone for two weeks! I, too will miss the temporary lapse in reviews from you. Maybe you could start a new thing- "The Hotplate Gourmet" or something. :)

Seriously though, I would love to contribute something to "Bob's Kitchen Replacement Project" as well. Please let us know how to help!

[krhm]

I will be ready to send Cranberry Liqueur and Blueberry Bounce, stocked in my kitchen thanks to your threads, Bob! Glad to know you're okay!

[Cookin4Love]

Another one here, checking in belatedly. I've heard from others how traumatic a fire is. I can't even conceive of the amount of devastation such a thing would cause. I will buy extinguishers on my next trip to Costco. I did learn several years ago to keep the baking soda in a different location, though. Don't ask. :D

I would also like to help you restock. I'm thinking an Amazon.com wish list might also be a place to "register" so we can make sure we help you regain things that are useful and meaningful to you. Please keep us informed about how you're doing and how we can help.

[Jodi]

Bob,
I was so sorry to read about what happened. Hang in there -- and let us know how we ca help you. In the meantime, sending you hugs and good thoughts. Here's hoping you're back in your kichen and cooking up something delicious soon!
Jodi

[cinnabun]

Bob,
Sorry to hear about the fire.
I am going to be unplugging my light from now on before I ever walk out the front door and only plug the toaster in when it is in use. I don't think I could deal with this type of loss.

[gdnr77]

Bob, I am so sorry to hear about the fire, and I am another one that has benefitted from your posts, I make the honey health bread you posted every week, and I would love to participate in a kitchen shower. Hang in there, and I hope everything goes as stress free as possible for you.

[MISSINDI]

Bob, you out there? Just wanted to check in and make sure you were ok... :)

[Gracie]

I, too, have kept checking this thread to see if he'd posted recently.

Bob - let us know how you are!

Loren

[greysangel]

he's ok..just not online very much at all :) I heard from him briefly today and he's dealing with insurance and trying to find records of items he purchased etc..

I'll tell him he's missed :D

now should we all make some lentil potato stew and think happy thoughts? :D

[sherri]

Bob,
I just read your post
I am so sorry this happened to you, what a terrible ordeal! I am glad that you are alright which is most important. Take care!

[bobmark226]

Well, I'm feeling a lot better now, the cleaning crews having given me a kitchen that is somewhat cleaned and cleared and useable, with full power, and with a little medical assistance after I sort of...um..."peaked" last week. Once again, I thank you all for the kind words. It's been a week of adventures and misadventures, not to mention major projects and minor annoyances. My insurance agent has been terrific, while the building's insurance agent has annoyed me no end until I finally told him off over the weekend. Fortunately, I won't be having any further dealing with that particular idiot as I've been absolved of any responsibility. My own insurer already sent me one nice big fat check to cover intial expenses like cleaning and electrician.

Thank goodness for the internet. I've been able to work up lists of groceries and spices lost using websites (Penzey's and Fresh Direct) and I'm already up to five hundred dollars on the two, with two hundred being just for spices.

I realize that if you've seen one fire photo, you've seen them all, and I was going to put a couple up, but for some reason, the image links aren't working!

Bob

[Cookin4Love]

Glad to see you back, Bob. I'm sorry you've had to deal with snarky people in this stressful time. Sorry, too, that the stress is taking such a toll, although I don't know how it could be avoided. Please let us know how we can help.

[Gracie]

Bob, I am glad you posted again and things sound like they are brightening a bit. I wish you'd posted your spice list rather than spend all that money - we could have each taken a spice or two and sent you what you need.

Keep trying with those photo links. All fires are not the same - this one is YOURS and we all care very much.

Loren

[Beth]

Glad you're feeling better and making progress, Bob. Glad you told off the building insurance jerk too. :p If I still had my dammit doll, I would send you one (ugly fabric thing with hair that stuck stright up, made out of a wild print material and came with a poem about sticking pins in it, squeezing it or whacking it until the stuffing all came out and you felt better).

I hadn't ever thought of what I would spend with Penzey's if I had to replace everything, but I've bought "a few things" and spent $60-70 and was proud of myself for getting out on my pre-Christmas trip for under $100 (okay, so it was $99 and change ;) ), so I still don't want to think about replacing the entire spice rack full of goodies.

Letr us know if there is anything we can do to help.

[bobmark226]

I should add that I appreciate your many offers, but I'm in an odd position. I needed certain things to be able to cook again at all, I needed to work up cost lists for insurance purposes, but at the same time, I have to hold off on many things until there's a kitchen "for real" which could be 6-8 weeks away, given that the cabinets have to be ordered. (There's some special fitting involved.) I also needed to work off some of the frustration and trips to Crate & Barrel, BB&B, and W-S weren't exactly hardships! ;) I actually went down to the Indian spice shop we went to on the klatch last fall and bought about half of what I needed most, running a tab of about a hundred bucks, and these guys are much cheaper than Penzey's even!

One funny note: as I was washing off and rescuing things, I was amazed that my very large pottery utensil crock from Waitsfield (VT) potters was in absolutlely perfect condition, even though most of the utensils were destroyed. I showed it to the owner of the cleaning company, remarking how it had survived. He laughed and asked me just how hot a fire I thought it had probably been made in in the first place. D'oh!!!

Bob

[jmarie]

We'd like to help Bob...is there an address? Maybe a PO Box address?

It really would be fun!

[donleyk]

Thanks for the update and the chuckle Bob! I'd still love to help out if you think of a way!

[bobmark226]

Although I now have a stripped down kitchen consisting of two counters (one overhead), a refrigerator, microwave, toaster oven and crockpot (see third photo), last night I came home to a largely clean, liveable space with the smoke odor finally pretty much gone. The professional cleaners (specialists in fire and flood damage) had finished and it's finally a liveable space. They even washed a couple dozen salvageable pots, pans and baking tins and sheets. (I just wished they hadn't piled them all on my "white" dining table!) There is a contractor coming on Saturday to review plans, but I finally have two days off with no fire-related chores, excepting the endless search for credit card and bank statements and receipts to justify expenses. (If you don't already -- save everything!)

The kilims went out for dry cleaning yesterday. The cost of cleaning is more than I paid for them, but I love them, and the insurance company okayed it. The bad news is that the entire dining room, foyer and hall to kitchen floors, which are the original (1929) parquet and I had refinished just last year, are now warping and creaking as they dry out and will need to be totally replaced. On the other hand, the building, and not my, insurance is going to cover this as well as all rebuilding, priming and painting of all walls and ceilings, so the ony part my insurer has to foot is the new electrical work in the kitchen itself, which will be major.

Bob

The ignition point (note toaster in foreground, KitchenAid flipped over; the firemen threw it into the bathtub, making a nice permanent black dent in the tub!)
http://images.kodakgallery.com/photos1155/2/24/47/49/82/2/282494724203_0_ALB.jpg
The whole mess, convection atop the pile. :(
http://images.kodakgallery.com/photos1155/2/24/47/79/53/5/553794724203_0_ALB.jpg
My new kitchen!!!! :)
http://images.kodakgallery.com/photos1155/2/24/57/20/10/6/610205724203_0_ALB.jpg

[bobmark226]

Dang! The photos were in the edit, where did they go????

Bob

[MISSINDI]

I can see 'em. Bob, you truly are lucky. :)

[Angelina]

I see the pictures...oh Bob! Hang in there! Need help cleaning up??

Angela

[irishspy]

Originally posted by bobmark226
Dang! The photos were in the edit, where did they go????

Bob

They're in the page-source, but I don't seem them in Firefox, and they appear as broken links in IE.

Still, I'm glad to read the recovery is proceeding apace! :D

[SandyM]

Not sure why this happens on some photos, Bob, but if you right click on the red box, go to Properties, and then cut and paste the URL in the address line, the picture will show up in the thread.

Thanks for posting.

Hang in there, and if you change your mind and want those cannisters or ceramic s&p shakers, I'm holding 'em for ya. ;)

[Gracie]

I can see the pictures if I paste the URL in my browser. Wow - the cleaners did a superb job!

Now onto the fun part - picking out everything for the new kitchen!

Loren

[irishspy]

Originally posted by bobmark226
Dang! The photos were in the edit, where did they go????

Bob

And they don't show up in Opera, either, so it has to be something to do with CL's boards or the photo host.

(Yes, there are three browsers on my PC. I am a geek. :D :cool: )

[Terrytx]

Wow, I would be sooooo totally stressed. What a mess that must have been. Can hardly wait to see the real "new kitchen".

[donleyk]

I just went to properties and copy the URL and pasted. Gave me chills Bob and again, I am glad you are okay.

Like the crockpot :D

[irishspy]

Originally posted by donleyk
I just went to properties and copy the URL and pasted. Gave me chills Bob and again, I am glad you are okay.

Like the crockpot :D

I just looked at them manually, too, and man, do I sympathize. What a mess to clean up. :eek:

On the plus side, you get all new equipment. :D

[tperes]

Bob, just saw this thread after being gone for a while. I am so sorry to hear of your kitchen fire mayhem, but so glad to hear that you are okay, and that things seem to be smoothing out.

I couldn't see the pictures you posted (nor were there any boxes w/ red x's in them), but I can imagine it must have been awful.

So, if you need anything at all, I agree with all the others, please don't hesitate to let us know. That is what friends (even virtual friends) are for!

Best wishes for a short and easy kitchen re-do!

Tanya

[donnamp14]

Another one late for the dance, here. Bob, this has been awful, but you are showing us your amazing resiliency! I recall a few years ago hearing a noise in the kitchen that I coudn't identify, and it turned out to be the coffeemaker! You've handled this mess so gracefully! Looking forward to pictures of your "new and improved" kitchen!

-Donna

[greysangel]

any pictures of the sri cha chicken? :p :p ;)

[rosie_one]

Wow. I'm glad you're o.k. too Bob; add me to the list. Good luck with the rebuilding.

[ReneeV]

Wow, I've been out of touch for a couple of weeks! Bob, I'm sooo sorry to hear about your fire! It can be devastating. I had a bedroom fire when I was a teen and I remember the disbelief I felt when it was all over.

Thank goodness you and your pooch are ok! I realize you have many friends, but if there is anything I can do to help you, please let me know. I'm just across the river.

Many good thoughts coming your way,
Renée

[Sami]

I couldn't see the photos, Bob, but am so glad you are fine and the place is clean so you can live there without worry.

Sami

[Beth]

Wow. Once you cut and paste the URLs, the photos show up in the post when you return. What a mess! Those walls tell me you were not far from having a much more serious fire. Had you not been home, you and a couple of neighbors could have been wiped out -- not that you probably haven't figured that out already. As it was, that was some heat to take out the bottom of your KA mixer. So glad it was kept relatively minimal (key word -- relatively) and you are making progress in getting put back together.

That is a nice looking crock pot -- looks a lot like mine. ;)

On the receipts and such, do you have photos from parties or gatherings -- even just snapshots of friends or family that might show what was there? Maybe friends have taken group photos in or near your kitchen. If you can prove what was there, you can deal with valuing it. Keep your chin up -- you're doing great! :)

[jtoepfert100]

Those pictures are so scary, Bob. Still just happy you're alive! The one with the convection oven was particularly sad because I know how much you loved it.

Good luck with all of the dreadful insurance matters!