Did you know that Thanksgiving is the leading day for home cooking fires?  Keeping fire safety a top priority in the kitchen during this time is important. As you start preparing your holiday schedule and organizing that family feast, remember, by following a few simple safety tips you can enjoy time with your loved ones, and keep yourself and your family safe from fire.

• If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove or stovetop. 
• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop. If you leave the kitchen, even for a short time, turn off the stove.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Turn pan handles away from the edge of the stove to avoid tipping then over.
• Keep anything that can catch fire - oven mitts, towels, food packaging, wooden utensils, packaging – away from the stovetop.

If you have a small (grease) cooking fire and decide to fight it:

• For a stovetop fire: Smother the flames by sliding a lid or baking sheet over the pan then turn off the burner. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
• For an oven fire: Turn off the heat and close the door.

If you have any doubt about fighting a small fire:

• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
• Call 9-1-1 from a safe place outside of the home.