The Thanksgiving holiday is this month, and that means family gatherings and lots of cooking will be taking place. It can also mean more fires.
With more activity and people in the home, especially around the kitchen, preparing that holiday meal can become a little hectic. Safety in the kitchen is then that much more important, especially on Thanksgiving Day.
According to the National Fire Prevention Association, cooking is the leading cause of home fires, and Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires.
This Thanksgiving, the Biloxi Fire Department wants to remind residents of some safety tips to keep in mind while preparing the feast.
- Safe Cookware:
- Choose a safe location for your cooking activities, away from flammable materials and structures.
- Use appropriate cooking equipment, such as grills and stoves that are in good working condition.
- Pay attention:
- Never leave your cooking unattended, especially when using an open flame or hot equipment.
- Fire Extinguishers:
- Have a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it. Different types of fires (grease, electrical, wood) require different extinguishing methods.
- Flammable Materials:
- Keep flammable materials like paper towels, dishcloths, and aerosol cans away from the cooking area.
- Clothing and hair:
- Avoid loose clothing that can catch fire and tie back long hair.
- Proper Ventilation:
- Ensure proper ventilation when cooking indoors to prevent the buildup of harmful gases.
- Children and Pets:
- Keep children and pets at a safe distance from cooking areas and hot surfaces.
- Flame Control:
- Be mindful of controlling flames and flare-ups when grilling.
- Oil and Grease:
- Be cautious when using oil and grease; they can splatter and cause fires. Use a deep fryer for deep-frying and keep a lid nearby to smother grease fires.
- Proper Storage:
- Store propane tanks and other flammable materials in a safe place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Emergency Plan:
- Have an emergency plan in place, including knowing how to call for help and the nearest exit or escape route in case of a fire.
By following these fire cooking safety guidelines, you can minimize the risks associated with cooking and enjoy your culinary endeavors while keeping yourself and others safe.
To see fire safety videos on the city’s YouTube channel under Police and Fire, click here.
News & notes: Weekly report, Snyder pool, council meeting, holiday closures
The week that was: The latest information on city projects, permits, service calls, and more from the departments of the Police, Fire, Engineering, Community Development, and Public Works is posted on the city’s Weekly Reports page. To see the weekly department reports, click here.
Donal M. Snyder Sr. Center pool: The Donal M. Snyder Sr. Center pool is closed this week due to staffing issues and the Thanksgiving holiday.
City Council meeting: The City Council will hold a regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 25, beginning at 1:30 p.m. in the City Council room on the second floor of Biloxi City Hall located at 140 Lameuse St. To see the agenda, click here.
Holiday closing: All non-emergency City of Biloxi municipal offices will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 27, and Friday, Nov. 28, in observance of Thanksgiving.
