That was a funny story Pom-- but maybe that just could be what caused the fire. Drip pans were so annoying for that reason, sometimes just a small spill that you didn't even notice and you would get a fire. Only happened a few times with me but it is scary, love my ceramic top for that reason. So easy to keep clean if you wipe it down after every meal...unless of course you happen to slap a plastic bag or cover on it . Twice has me trained to smarten up now and no more problems.