It’s easy to get distracted with the excitement of the holidays, with visits from family and friends and food preparation. But cooking fires are the number one cause of residential fires and injuries. The leading cause of fire in the kitchen is unattended cooking.
Melanie McDonough, Regional Director of Communications with the American Red Cross Greensboro Chapter, says don’t overlook the basics when it comes to the kitchen.
“Make sure that you use a timer and that someone is in the kitchen. If you have pots or pans on the stove, make sure you turn the handles away because you don’t want any kids to be able to grab those handles and pull it down on them or anyone to knock them if they are walking through.
McDonough added, “Make sure you have a fire extinguisher in your kitchen and people should also check to see if their fire extinguisher has an expiration date or needs replaced.”
Checking the batteries in smoke detectors is also advised.
McDonough says when traveling on the roadways during the holidays, pack your patience and stay calm.
“You want to make sure you have an emergency preparedness kit in your car, everything from water and snacks, first aid kit, flash light and a road flare. I know a lot of people are thinking I have Triple-A (AAA) and I will be OK, but you have to think there will be a lot of people on the road and Triple-A may be busy,” says McDonough.
The Red Cross also recommends checking your vehicle’s windshield wipers, and tire pressure before hitting the roadways this holiday season.
To learn more about preventing a fire in your home and how to keep your family safe, go to http://gso.redcross.org/ .
