With Thanksgiving just around the corner, families and friends will be gathering to celebrate the holiday and for most, the kitchen is the heart of the home. Making fire safety a top priority in the kitchen during this happy but hectic time is important, especially when the home is full of family and activity. Cooking fires occur more often on Thanksgiving Day than any other day of the year, with four times the average number! So as you prepare your holiday schedule and organize that large family meal, by following a few simple safety tips, you can enjoy time with your loved ones while keeping your family and home safe from fire.
•Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.
•Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
•Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay at minimum 3 feet away.
•Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee can cause serious burns.
•Keep the floor of the kitchen clear of trip hazards.
•Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
•Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children. Store up high in a locked cabinet.
•Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
•Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.
•If you plan on frying a turkey, allow it to thaw 24 hours for every 10 pounds of meat.
•Determine the correct amount of oil needed by first placing the turkey in the fryer with water.
•Only use a turkey fryer outdoors away from combustible structures and place on a level surface.
•Turkey fryers can easily overheat and start a fire. Check the temperature often.
For more information contact the Bismarck Fire Department at (701) 355-1400 or visit our website at www.bismarcknd.gov/fire.