The Illinois State Fire Marshal’s Office has some tips to help prevent fires in the kitchen this Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is the top day for home fires involving cooking equipment says Fire Marshal Spokesperson JC Fultz. That’s why it’s important to keep anything that can catch fire away from the stove and not leave food unattended. If a fire does break out: “If there’s a fire in the oven – some of us don’t clean our ovens – keep the door shut and turn off the heat,” Fultz said. “If you’re cooking something on the stovetop, smother a small flame by sliding the lid over the pan. Turn the burner off and leave the lid over the pan until it cools. If there’s any doubt about fighting a small fire, just get out, call 911 or your emergency number once you’re outside the home.” It’s also a good idea to create a “Kid-Free Zone” at least three feet around the stove. Turkey fryers should only be used outside and the bird should be completely thawed before frying.
