Tips to Avoid Thanksgiving Cooking Fires

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  • The National Fire Protection Association encourages safety when cooking Thanksgiving meals
    The National Fire Protection Association encourages safety when cooking Thanksgiving meals
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Thanksgiving Day and the day before are two of the top three days for home cooking fires in the United States each year according to the National Fire Protection Association.

The Edmond Fire Department, in conjunction with the NFPA, wants Edmond residents to use caution when preparing Thanksgiving meals.

Thanksgiving Day is the number one day for home cooking fires in the U.S. Christmas Day is second, followed by the day before Thanksgiving.

Below are safety tips from the NFPA to consider this Thanksgiving and holiday season.

Fire Safety Tips from the NFPA

Q: What is the leading factor in cooking fires and fire deaths?

A: Unattended cooking is by far the leading contributor.  In 2018 the US fire departments reported 1630 home cooking fires on Thanksgiving Day.

 

Q: How do I make the kitchen safer?

A: Keep children and pets out of the kitchen while cooking is a good start.  Looks around the kitchen before you start cooking and eliminate some of the items that may get into you way or pose dangers.  Make sure you have space on your countertop to work and room to properly set down hot items.

 

Q: How do I make other areas in my house safer during the holidays?

A: Be sure holiday decorations are flame resistant or flame retardant, keep candles away from decorations, and use indoor lights indoors and outdoor lights outdoors.

 

Q: How do I know the proper use of an appliance?

A: Read the manufactures direction, these are usually found online if you don’t have the original paperwork.

 

Q: How do I avoid an accident with an outdoors cooking appliance?

A: Many people use deep fryers for their turkeys, these appliances should be located away from your house of any combustible source.  Never place a frozen turkey in hot oil.  Follow the recommended directions for deep fryers before using them.

 

Q: Is it safe to walk away from something cooking on the stove?

A: No, never leave food unattended.

 

For more tips and information, visit the Edmond Fire Department's home safety page at http://edmondok.com/518/Home-Safety

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