Your Recipe for Cooking Safety

8/1/2013 (Permalink)

It is common tradition in the United States for the holidays and cooking to go hand in hand. But more time in the kitchen brings an increased chance for cooking–related fires.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking has long been the leading cause of residential fires and fire injures, and Thanksgiving is the peak for residential cooking fires. 

Did You Know?

• Cooking fires account for nearly half of reported home fires.
• In 2010, cooking fires resulted in 410 deaths, 5,310 injures and over $993 million in property damage.
• Three of every five reported, non-fatal home cooking fire injuries occurred when the individual attempted to fight the fire themselves.
• If a small grease fire starts in a pan, smother the flames by carefully sliding a lid over the pan. Turn off the burner but do not remove the pan. Keep it covered until the pan cools completely.
• You can reduce the risk of a cooking fire by: Staying in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling food. Check on food regularly and use a timer to remind you of cooking food. Keeping children three feet away from cooking surfaces, also keeping cooking surfaces clean to prevent food or grease build up.