Cooking safety starts with YOU: Fire Prevention Week is Oct. 8-14

by

Oct. 4, 2023

The theme of this year’s Fire Prevention WeekTM is “Cooking safety starts with YOU. Pay attention to fire preventionvTM.” The goal of the campaign is to help everyone learn about simple but important actions they can take when cooking to keep themselves and those around them safe.

Cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries in the United States, according to the National Fire Protection Association®. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of cooking fires and deaths.

A few simple changes in the kitchen can reduce the risk of fires and help keep you and your family safe:

  1. Watch what you heat. Always keep a close eye on what you are cooking. Set a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
  2. Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove. Always keep a lid nearby when cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner.
  3. Have a “kid- and pet-free zone” of at least 3 feet (1 meter) around the stove or grill and anywhere else hot food or drink is prepared or carried.

Visit the NFPA website to learn more about Fire Prevention WeekTM. For kids’ fire safety info, visit sparky.org.