TMFPD NEWS RELEASE
Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District (TMFPD) is reminding residents to be mindful about cooking safety, especially as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches. When it comes to fires in the home, Thanksgiving is an especially risky day. From 2009-2011, there were an average of about 1,300 cooking fires on Thanksgiving Day, which is more than three times the average daily rate.
“If you are frying, grilling or broiling food, stay in the kitchen. Not following this advice can be a recipe for disaster on Thanksgiving and throughout the year,” said TMFPD fire marshal Amy Ray.
Ray also wants residents to be aware of the danger turkey fryers can pose. “Turkey fryer fires can be explosive and result in serious burns. Only use a turkey fryer outside and away from your home. Never use it in a garage or under porches. Don’t overfill the oil or leave the turkey fryer unattended.”
Some safety tips to remember this Thanksgiving Day:
- Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.
- Stay in the home when cooking the turkey and check on it frequently.
- Only use turkey fryers outside and make sure you constantly attend to the fryer while cooking.
- Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and children should stay 3 feet away.
- Make sure children stay away from hot food and liquids to avoid burns.
- Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children.
- Test your smoke alarms to make sure they are working.
- Practice your home escape plan.
For more information, contact the Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District Division of Fire Prevention at (775) 326-6000.
