The American Red Cross emphasizes the high risk of cooking fires during Thanksgiving, noting it as the peak time for such incidents. With cooking fires comprising 44% of all home fires in the United States, the organization provides crucial tips: stay in the kitchen while cooking, use timers, and keep flammable materials away from heat sources. Further safety advice includes installing smoke alarms and having a fire extinguisher ready. For more details and a fire escape plan, visit redcross.org/fire.
“Cooking is the leading cause of home fires, home fire injuries and the second leading cause of home fire deaths,” said Rodrigo Carrillo, Regional Disaster Officer for the Illinois Red Cross. “Most happen because people leave cooking food unattended. We want everyone to have a safe, enjoyable holiday, so don’t leave the kitchen while you’re cooking.”
COOKING SAFETY TIPS Follow these safety tips and visit redcross.org/fire for more information, including a fire escape plan to practice with your family.
- Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you must leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
- Use a timer to remind yourself that the stove or oven is on.
- Avoid wearing loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
- Keep kids and pets at least three feet away from cooking areas.
- Keep anything that can catch on fire — potholders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains — away from your stove top and oven or any other appliance that generates heat.
- Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.
- Consider purchasing a fire extinguisher to keep in your kitchen.
- Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving home to make sure all stoves, ovens and small appliances are turned off.
