Franklin, TN – Thanksgiving remains the No. 1 day for home cooking fires in the United States, according to the National Fire Protection Association. It’s followed closely by Christmas Day, the day before Thanksgiving, Easter, and Christmas Eve. With so much activity happening in the kitchen this time of year, Franklin Fire and Life Safety Educator Jamie Melton reminds residents to cook with caution and be prepared to act quickly if a small fire occurs.

Holiday Cooking Fire Prevention Tips

• Stay in the kitchen while frying, boiling, grilling, or broiling food. If you need to step away, even briefly, turn off the stove. (A good reminder: Take a spoon, spatula, or potholder with you so you don’t forget you’re cooking.)
• If you are simmering, baking, or roasting, stay in the home, check the food regularly, and use a timer.
• Keep flammable items, such as towels and food packaging, away from the stovetop.

How to Handle a Small Cooking Fire (Early Stages Only)

• Stovetop Grease Fire
• Never use water.
• Slide a lid over the pan to smother the flames.
• Turn off the burner.
• Leave the lid on until the pan is completely cool.
• Call 911, even if you think the fire is out.
• Oven or Microwave Fire
• Turn off the heat or power.
• Keep the door closed.
• Call 911.
• Turkey Fryer Fire
• If you see smoke coming from the pot, the oil is overheating and nearing ignition. Turn it off and allow it to cool.
• Keep a B-rated or ABC multipurpose fire extinguisher nearby.
• Call 911 before using an extinguisher.
• Remember PASS when using your extinguisher:
• Pull the pin
• Aim at the base of the fire
• Squeeze the handle
• Sweep from side to side
• When in Doubt – Get Out

Melton emphasizes that if there is any hesitation about fighting a small fire, the safest choice is to evacuate immediately. “Get everyone out, close the door behind you to help contain the fire, and call 911 from outside,” she said.

Watch a Turkey Fryer Fire Demo from 2020 HERE.

###