KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- An average of 358,500 house fires occur in the United States each year. Thanksgiving is the peak day for house fires, with three times the daily average in the U.S.
To ensure proper safety, monitoring your cooking is vital. The combination of crowded kitchens, distracted cooks, and longer cooking times creates an ideal environment for accidents. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, in 2021, roughly 170,000 house fires were started in the kitchen. These fires caused an estimated 135 deaths, 3,000 injuries and over $494 million in property loss.
The USFA recommends staying alert while cooking this holiday season. Pay close attention to what you are cooking. If you see smoke or the grease starts to boil, turn the burner off.
Keep pot handles turned towards the back of the stove to avoid accidental bumps and spills. Additionally, keep clutter away from the stove that could possibly be pushed onto the burner.
The National Fire Protection Association recommends creating a 3-foot no-kid zone surrounding the stove and oven. This zone will ensure no children are harmed during the holidays and reduce the risk of accidents that could cause greater damage.
Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family and great food. By following these few safety tips, you can ensure your evening is free of flames. Preventing house fires only takes a little extra attention, but it helps protect what matters most.