With Thanksgiving just days away, CAL FIRE/San Luis Obispo County Fire is warning residents about the many dangers that the holiday can pose. The end of the year for most Americans means preparing for feasts, festivities and fun throughout the holiday season. But each year that joy is marred by tragedy when accidents and fires cause injuries and even death. Thanksgiving remains the leading day for home cooking fires with three times as many fires than an average day, according to statistics from the National Fire Protection Association.
To help reduce the chance of fire and injuries associated with holiday cooking, follow these tips:
Never leave cooking food unattended. Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food.
If you leave the kitchen for even a short period time, turn off the stove.
Cooking food should always be supervised by an adult.
Turkey fryers should always be used outdoors a safe distance from buildings and other material that can burn. Never use on wooden decks or in garages.
Children should not be permitted near a turkey fryer since hot oil can cause serious burn injuries.
Provide a level surface that is free of ignitable materials when using turkey fryers.
Make sure a fire extinguisher is handy at all times. Never use water to put out a grease fire.
Use well-insulated potholders or oven mitts when touching pot or lid handles.
For more information on fire safety, visit our website at www.fire.ca.gov.