For most of us, the holiday season represents a time for family festivities and good cheer. What many do not understand is that the holiday season is a time when there is an increased risk of home fires. A fire in your home can be devastating at any time, but especially during the holiday season. Recently in the city of Bismarck there have been three cooking-related fires in the last two weeks that have resulted in approximately $250,000 dollars in damage. Fires in the home are preventable, especially cooking related fires.
With unattended cooking as the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries, the Bismarck Fire Department has the following safety tips to keep you holiday season safe:
1.Stay in the kitchen while you’re frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food. If you’re simmering, baking or roasting food, check it regularly and use a timer to remind you that you’re cooking.
2.Keep anything that can catch fire away from the cooking area, and turn off the stove when you leave the kitchen, even if it’s for a short period of time.
3.Create a “kid-free zone” of at least three feet around the stove and areas where hot food and drinks are prepared or carried.
4.Have a fire extinguisher.
5.Never use water on a grease fire or attempt to carry a burning container. Instead, cover it with a tight- fitting cover or cookie sheet to smother the fire.
In addition to cooking fires, candle fires are also very common. Candles are widely used in homes throughout the holidays. The Bismarck Fire Department encourages residents to consider using flameless candles, which look and smell like real candles. If you do use traditional candles, keep them at least 12” away from anything that can burn, and remember to blow them out when you leave the room or go to bed. Use candle holders that are sturdy, won’t tip over and are placed on uncluttered surfaces. Avoid using candles in the bedroom. Lastly, never leave a child or pet alone in a room with a burning candle.
Finally, one of the most important things to do all year-round is to check your smoke alarms. You should have a smoke alarm in each sleeping area, outside the sleeping areas and on each level of your home. If your smoke alarms are older than 10 years replace them.
By following these fire prevention tips and measures, you can greatly reduce the risk of fire in your home, and enjoy a safe holiday season. For more holiday safety information please contact the Bismarck Fire Department at 701-355-1400.