Kitchen safety is a key feature for fire prevention month 2020.  During the pandemic a lot of families have been making more meals at home. Whether cooking indoors or outdoors, it is important to stay vigilant.  

Chief Bill Major and Firefighter Andy LaForce share a few tips about staying safe while cooking.  See below:

• Beware of Grease - When too hot, grease can catch fire. Grease fires can be quelled by cutting off the oxygen supply in the pan. Turn off the heat source, put a lid over the fire in the pan for a few moments, being careful not to burn yourself. You can also lightly dust the fire with baking power, but NEVER throw water on a grease fire.  Also, don’t move a flaming pot or pan away from the stove.
• Stay Near the Heat Source - People have a tendency to put something on the stove, in the oven or on the grill and step away “only for a few minutes.”  If the pot spills over, something catches on fire in the microwave, or wind kicks up the flame on the grill, you just don’t know where that spark will travel. Be sure everything is turned off if you leave the cooking area.
• Be Neat, Clean and Tidy - A pot holder or dish towel that’s right next to the heating element or open flame can spell disaster. Keep all materials, including plasticware and packaging, away from the heat. So, keep your work areas clean, as well as the oven, stove and grill. 
• Keep an Eye on the Kids – Young children should stay at least three feet away from heat sources, whether inside or out. By turning pot handles inward or making an imaginary ring around a grilling area, the risk of a child grabbing the pot or accidentally knocking over a grill is reduced. 
• Dress to Cook - Loose clothing can inadvertently catch on fire. Avoid wearing loose long sleeves or baggy clothing while cooking.
• Maintain Home Fire Extinguishers – Having working extinguishers that are easily accessible to your cooking areas are critical to safety if a stove/oven or grill fire gets out of hand. 

By educating your family members on how to practice kitchen safety, you will be equipped to handle cooking emergencies and help keep everyone safe.