CLAYTON – Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and festive traditions – but fires aren’t on the menu, even as fire departments across the country stay busy with extra holiday cooking.
The Clayton Fire Department wants everyone to enjoy a safe holiday. Community Risk Reduction Specialist Bryan Belvin is offering the following fire safety tips to ensure that Thanksgiving doesn’t end with an emergency call:
· Stay Nearby while Cooking – Unattended cooking is the leading cause of kitchen fires. Remaining in the kitchen while food is cooking on the stovetop can prevent many common fire hazards.
· Fry Turkeys Safely – Deep-frying turkeys has become popular, but it’s also risky. Fry only outdoors, on a flat surface, at least 10 feet from any structure. Make sure the turkey is completely thawed and dry before frying to prevent dangerous oil splatters.
· Keep Flammable Items Clear of Heat – Dish towels, oven mitts, and wooden utensils should be kept far from the stove and burners, as these items can ignite quickly.
· Avoid Overloading Electrical Outlets – With multiple appliances running, it’s easy to overload circuits. Be mindful of the electrical load in the kitchen. Plug one appliance into each outlet to prevent short circuits or fires.
· Have a Lid Handy for Grease Fires – Grease fires can happen quickly. Always have a metal lid or pan cover nearby to smother a grease fire. Never use water, as it can make the fire worse by splashing hot grease. Don’t try to move the pot or pan to the sink – it could spread the fire.
As always, it’s important to have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in place. These devices provide early warning in case of fire or carbon monoxide buildup, helping to protect everyone in the home.
“Thanksgiving is all about gathering together, enjoying good food, and making memories,” says Belvin. “By taking a few simple precautions, everyone can focus on celebrating rather than putting out fires.”
Each year, Thanksgiving sees nearly three times more cooking fires than any other day, mostly due to the high volume of cooking and distractions. That’s according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). By following these simple tips, everyone can enjoy a holiday that’s free from fire risks.
For more fire safety tips, please visit townofclaytonnc.org/firesafety.
