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.