Biloxi A to Z: Fire cooking safety during the holidays

Biloxi A to Z: The Biloxi Fire Department is asking residents to keep an eye on what they are cooking this Thanksgiving. 

Thanksgiving usually means a family or group gathering with cooking.

It can also mean more fires. Thanksgiving is the leading day of the year for home fires involving cooking equipment.

The Biloxi Fire Department is asking residents to keep these key fire cooking safety tips in mind.

  • 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.
  • Never leave your cooking unattended, especially when using an open flame or hot equipment.
  • Keep flammable materials like paper towels, dishcloths, and aerosol cans away from the cooking area.
  • Avoid loose clothing that can catch fire. Tie back long hair.
  • Ensure proper ventilation when cooking indoors to prevent the buildup of harmful gases.
  • Keep children and pets at a safe distance from cooking areas and hot surfaces.
  • Be mindful of controlling flames and flare-ups when grilling.
  • 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.
  • Have a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it. Different types of fires such as grease, electrical, and wood require different extinguishing methods.
  • Fire blankets assist in safely extinguishing small fires such as grease, oil, and electrical fires where water can spread the fire.
  • Fire blankets can be purchased at places such as Home Depot and on Amazon.
  • Store propane tanks and other flammable materials in a safe place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
  • 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.
Also in this week’s video: holiday schedules for garbage, recycling, and yard waste pickup and non-emergency city offices, the weekend forecast, weekend events, and a holiday message from Mayor Andrew “FoFo” Gilich.
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Biloxi Community Calendar

News & notes: Weekly reports, Breakfast with the Mayor

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.

Breakfast with Mayor Gilich: Mayor Andrew “FoFo” Gilich spoke to a Biloxi Chamber audience Friday morning at the Edgewater as part of the Chamber’s event, Breakfast with the Mayor. Mayor Gilich gave an update on the Popp’s Ferry extension project, A.J. Holloway renovations, the new cyber center, and holiday events. He also answered questions on topics such as the Saenger Theatre, homeless issues, and the Lighthouse Pier. To see images from the event, click here.