As military families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving, Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany Fire & Emergency Services offers safety tips to help prevent fire hazards.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by the day before Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and Christmas Eve. Unattended cooking was by far the leading contributing factor in fires and fire deaths. Cooking equipment was involved in almost half of all reported home fires and injuries, and is the second leading cause of home fire deaths.
From testing family recipes to decorating delicious desserts, everyone enjoys being part of the Thanksgiving preparations. During this holiday season, keep in mind a few safety tips:
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Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop
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Stay home when cooking turkey, and check it frequently
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Keep children away from the stove; the stove will be hot, kids should stay 3 feet away
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Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns
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Keep the floor clear to avoid tripping hazards such as toys, pocketbooks or bags
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Keep knives out of the reach of children
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Be sure electrical cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child
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Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children
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Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle
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Make sure smoke alarms are working; test them by pushing the test button
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If using a Turkey Fryer -- they should ALWAYS be used outdoors, a safe distance away from buildings and other flammable materials
For more information on Fire Safety topics, call MCLB Fire Prevention Section at 229-639-5500.