Thanksgiving Day is Peak Day for Residential Structure Fires

TYLER — Thanksgiving continues to be the leading day of the year for home fires involving cooking equipment, and Tyler firefighters are doing their part to get the word out. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the average number of reported residential building fires almost doubles on Thanksgiving Day alone. Additionally, most of these fires occur between the hours of 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. This is usually due to some sort of cooking operation. Cooking is, by far, the leading cause of all Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings at 72%. The Tyler Fire Department reminds citizens to follow a few basic tips this Thanksgiving to ensure everyone has a safe and happy holiday season.

� Stay in the kitchen while you are cooking on the stovetop. Unattended cooking continues to be the leading cause of fires in the kitchen.

� Keep children away from the stove. Ensure that children stay at least 3 feet from cooking appliances.

� Keep kids away from hot liquids that may spill or splash, which could cause serious burn injuries.

� Keep the floor clear and free of any obstructions that could pose a trip hazard while carrying hot food.

� Keep any items that could catch fire away from your stovetop. Remember, most cooking fires in the home involve the stovetop.

� Matches and lighters should be kept out of reach of children.

Also, the Tyler Fire Department notes that many people will be frying turkeys for Thanksgiving. If done incorrectly, this can be a dangerous endeavor. Below are just a few safety tips to think about before frying.

1. Fryers should only be used outdoors away from buildings and combustible material. Never use in garages or on wooden decks.

2. Look for newer fryers with sealed lids to prevent oil spills.

3. Never leave the fryer unattended.

4. Keep children and pets away from fryer at all times.

5. The turkey should be completely thawed and patted dry prior to frying. Water and oil do not mix. This could cause the oil to splatter and boil over.

6. Keep a fire extinguisher appropriate for oil fires close at hand and be familiar with how to operate it. Never use water to extinguish a grease fire.

7. Always wear the appropriate clothing: shirts with long sleeves, full length pants, and shoes that completely cover the feet. Safety goggles are also recommended.

8. If a fire or accident does occur, call 911 immediately.

Firefighters responded to a cooking-related kitchen blaze Wednesday in the 900 block of W. Nutbush Street. Fortunately, only minor damage was reported. Contact the Tyler Fire Marshal�s Office at 903-535-0005 for more information regarding fire prevention and safety.