October is Fire Prevention Month

October is Fire Prevention Month and the first week of October is Fire Prevention Week™

This year’s motto is “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!

According to NFPA, cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries in the United States. Almost half (44%) of reported home fires started in the kitchen. Two-thirds (66%) of home cooking fires start with the ignition of food or other cooking materials.(data from NFPA)

Cooking fires can be prevented by:

  • Never leave cooking food unattended.
  • Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling or broiling.
  • If you have to leave, even for a short time, turn off the stove.
  • If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly.
  • Remain in the home while food is cooking.
  • Use a timer to remind you that you’re cooking.
  • You have to be alert when cooking. You won’t be alert if you are sleepy, have taken medicine or drugs, or consumed alcohol that makes you drowsy.
  • Always keep an oven mitt and pan lid nearby when you’re cooking.
  • If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan to smother the flame. Turn off the burner, and leave the pan covered until it is completely cool.
  • Have a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried.
  • Avoiding distractions such as electronics or TV while cooking

For more general information about Fire Prevention Week and cooking fire prevention, visit www.fpw.org.

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