Thanksgiving: Pay attention to the kitchen
Firefighters respond to three times as many home cooking fires on Thanksgiving than a normal day, according to the National Fire Protection Association.
“During the holidays we tend to have multiple items cooking on the stove while we are visiting with friends and family,” said Chief Ken Pimlott, CAL FIRE director. “It is critical to not get distracted and to always stand next to what you are cooking. Thanksgiving Day is often one of our busier days responding to home cooking fires; we would like to reduce that number by practicing a little extra fire safety.”
Safety tips from Cal Fire:
– Always stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling or broiling food. If you have to leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove. Regularly check on food that’s simmering, baking or roasting, and use a timer to remind you that you’re cooking.
– Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove. Someone walking by is less likely to bump them or pull them over.
– When using a turkey fryer, be sure to follow instructions closely. Don’t exceed the recommended oil level and only use the device outdoors!
– Make sure a fire extinguisher is handy at all times. Never use water to put out a grease fire.
– Ensure you have working smoke alarms installed in your home.
Click here for a video on safety tips.
