Thanksgiving is one of the busiest days of the year for home cooking fires — and local fire departments across our region see an uptick in kitchen and fryer-related emergencies. As families prepare for the holiday, here are some simple but important safety reminders to keep your home, guests, and meal safe.
🔥 1. Don’t Deep Fry Your House (Yes, Really)
If you’re using a turkey fryer, keep it outside, on flat ground, away from your home, deck, garage, or siding.
Never use a fryer indoors, on a porch, or near anything that can burn.
🔥 2. Make Sure the Turkey Is Fully Thawed
A partially frozen turkey dropped into hot oil can explode, sending flames and hot oil everywhere.
Allow plenty of time for thawing — usually 24 hours for every 4–5 pounds.
🔥 3. Keep a Close Eye on the Stove
Unattended cooking is the number one cause of home fires.
Stay in the kitchen when frying, boiling, or broiling food. If you need to step away, turn the burner off.
🔥 4. Keep Kids & Pets Away From Hot Zones
Create a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet around stoves, fryers, and hot surfaces.
This also helps prevent spills and burns.
🔥 5. Clear Away Clutter
Keep oven mitts, towels, food packaging, and decorations away from your stove and counters.
Even a small spark can ignite something left too close.
🔥 6. Have a Fire Extinguisher Ready
Make sure you have a Class K or multi-purpose extinguisher (ABC) nearby and that you know how to use it.
Never put water on a grease fire — it will make the flames worse.
🔥 7. Check Your Smoke Alarms
Test smoke alarms before cooking. Early alerts save lives.
🔥 8. Oven on Fire? Keep the Door Closed
If something catches fire inside the oven, don’t open the door.
Turn off the heat and let it smother.
🔥 9. Keep Paths Clear for First Responders
If you’re hosting a large gathering, make sure driveways and walkways are clear — especially with holiday parking
