DeKalb County Fire Rescue Offers Thanksgiving Fire Safety Tips

TUCKER, Ga. − The DeKalb County Fire Rescue Department (DCFR) is offering Thanksgiving fire safety tips to help residents prevent holiday cooking hazards.

According to the United States Fire Administration, the leading cause of all Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings is cooking. An estimated 2,000 Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings occur annually in the United States, resulting in an average of five deaths, 25 injuries and $21 million in property loss each year. Unfortunately, smoke alarms were not present in 20 percent of Thanksgiving Day fires that occurred in occupied residential structures.

DCFR recommends residents follow these simple precautions to prevent cooking hazards:  

• Make sure that the turkey is completely thawed out before cooking.
• Never leave food unattended while frying or grilling.
• If frying or deep-frying, keep the fryer outside, away from walls, and free from moisture.
• Keep a fire extinguisher handy in the kitchen, and know how to use it.
• Never let children or pets play near the turkey fryer and be sure to use potholders or oven mitts to avoid any burn injuries.
• Ensure smoke alarms are connected and working.

For more information, visit the DCFR website at www.dekalbcountyga.gov/fire-rescue/fire-rescue. 

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