Image courtesy Canva

Thanksgiving and the day before are the riskiest days of the year for home cooking fires. Cooking causes an average of 158,400 home fires annually—44% of all U.S. home fires. The American Red Cross of Greater Kansas shares safety tips to help families enjoy a safe holiday.

Cooking Safety Tips:

• Stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling, or broiling. Turn off the stove if you leave.
• Use a timer to remind yourself the stove or oven is on.
• Avoid loose clothing near heat sources.
• Keep kids and pets at least three feet away from cooking areas.
• Keep flammable items—towels, potholders, paper, and plastic—away from stoves and ovens.
• Clean cooking surfaces regularly to prevent grease buildup.
• Consider keeping a fire extinguisher in the kitchen.
• Always check that stoves, ovens, and small appliances are off before leaving home or going to bed.

Smoke Alarms Save Lives: Install alarms near kitchens, on each level of your home, and in or near bedrooms. Test monthly and replace batteries annually. The Red Cross can assist families who cannot afford or install alarms.

Since 2014, the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign has saved at least 2,519 lives through education, escape planning, and free smoke alarm installations.

Learn more at redcross.org/homefires.