Thanksgiving Day is noted as the leading day for home fires involving cooking equipment, with incidents occurring at four times the usual rate. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reported that in 2022 alone, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 1,610 home cooking fires on Thanksgiving Day. This represents a significant increase of 399 percent over the daily average.
Cooking is responsible for more than half of all reported home fires and nearly two out of every five home fire injuries. It also stands as a leading cause of home fire deaths, accounting for 17 percent. Specifically, ranges and cooktops are involved in almost three out of every five cooking-related home fires, while ovens contribute to 13 percent of these incidents.
"Kitchens are the heart and soul of many homes and that is even more true during Thanksgiving," stated Illinois State Fire Marshal James A. Rivera. He emphasized the importance of setting timers to keep track of items being cooked and establishing zones free from children and pets around stoves or any areas with hot food.
To enhance safety during food preparation throughout the year, several precautions are advised:
- Never leave frying, boiling, grilling, or broiling food unattended.
- When frying a turkey, ensure not to overfill oil in the fryer by first using water to gauge how much oil is needed.
- Always fry turkeys outdoors only after ensuring they are completely thawed and dry.
- Use long cooking gloves when handling pots.
Creating a "Kid Free Zone" at least three feet around cooking areas is recommended. Keep flammable materials away from stoves and check ovens before preheating them. For simmering or roasting foods, regular checks are essential along with staying in the house while cooking.
In case of an oven fire, keeping the door shut and turning off the heat is crucial. Small flames can be smothered by sliding a lid over them; however, if there's any uncertainty about controlling a small fire, it's best to evacuate immediately and call emergency services.
Further fire safety information can be accessed through the NFPA website or the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal's website.
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