The Crookston Fire Department would like to remind local residents to practice cooking safety during the holiday season. The kitchen is the heart of the home, especially at Thanksgiving. Crookston Firefighter Brian Hanson said the likelihood of a cooking fire during Thanksgiving is significantly higher than any other time of the year. “According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking is the leading cause of home fires on Thanksgiving Day,” said Hanson. A cooking fire is three times more likely on Thanksgiving than any other time of the year. Most fires on Thanksgiving occur between noon and 4:00 p.m., the peak cooking hours. A lot of those fires can be easily avoided by staying alert and in the kitchen while cooking. Many home cooking fires are caused by unattended equipment, abandoned material, a heat source left too close to flammable materials, product misuse, and cooking equipment that has not been properly turned off. If you have a cooking fire, go outside and call 9-1-1 for the help of your local firefighters. Do not try to extingush the fire yourself.”
The use of turkey fryers which use a large amount of cooking oil at high temperatures also poses a significant danger and can lead to devastating burns, other injuries, and the destruction of property. The Crookston Fire Department recommends seeking out grocery stores, specialty food retailers, and restaurants for preparation or using an oil-less fryer that cooks with infrared heat.
Being aware of the risk of scalds and burns is also important while cooking and Hanson suggests keeping a “kid-free zone” of at least three feet around the stove and other areas hot food or drinks are prepared and carried. “Thanksgiving is also a high time for cooking related burns,” said Hanson. “To prevent scalds and burns, cook on back burners and make sure all pot handles are turned inward so children don’t come into contact with them. Appliances that get hot, such as toaster ovens, should also be well out of a child’s reach. Have a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food and drinks are prepared or carried. The Crookston Fire Department urges you to cook with caution and wishes you all a happy Thanksgiving and holiday.”
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