Safe and Cozy: Holiday Cooking Fire Safety Tips | SERVPRO of Spring Valley/Jamul

12/3/2024 (Permalink)

Stay fire-safe this Christmas with SERVPRO ®’s top holiday cooking tips. Visit us for expert advice!

As Christmas approaches, many of us in Spring Valley look forward to gathering around the table with loved ones. However, with all the festive cooking, it’s easy to overlook fire safety. Did you know that December is one of the peak months for home cooking fires? SERVPRO of Spring Valley/Jamul wants to help keep your home safe and cozy by sharing some essential tips on holiday cooking fire safety.

The Risks of Cooking Fires During the Holidays

Christmas and other December holidays are filled with traditional meals that often involve long hours in the kitchen. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), unattended cooking is the leading cause of kitchen fires, with nearly 50% of home fires starting due to kitchen mishaps. In 2021 alone, kitchen fires accounted for around 172,900 incidents nationwide, with many happening during the holidays. Keeping fire safety top of mind can help prevent these incidents.

Top Tips for Fire-Safe Holiday Cooking

Staying safe during your holiday cooking doesn’t mean sacrificing delicious meals. Here are some practical ways to help reduce fire risks:

• Stay Close to Your Cooking: It may be tempting to leave the kitchen to check on guests, but unattended cooking is the primary cause of kitchen fires. Set a timer on your phone or oven to remind you to check your dishes regularly.

• Clear the Cooking Area: Keep flammable items, like paper towels, oven mitts, and wooden utensils, away from hot surfaces. This simple step can prevent fires from spreading quickly if they do ignite.

• Use a Pot Lid to Put Out Small Flames: If a small fire starts on your stovetop, turn off the burner and carefully place a lid on the pan to smother the flames. Avoid using water, as it can cause oil-based fires to spread.

• Be Mindful of Hot Oil: Cooking with oil, such as deep-frying, can be especially risky. Make sure you’re using the right amount of oil, and never leave frying foods unattended. Cooking outdoors, away from your home, is ideal for deep frying.

Additional Holiday Fire Hazards

The kitchen isn’t the only place where fires can start. Holiday decorations, candles, and even overloaded power strips can also contribute to fire risks during December. Ensure all candles are extinguished before leaving a room, and opt for LED lights on your decorations to reduce fire hazards.

SERVPRO of Spring Valley/Jamul is Here to Help

SERVPRO® of Spring Valley/Jamul understands that even with the best preparation, accidents can happen. If a cooking mishap or other fire damages your home, our experienced team is here to provide fast and thorough restoration services to get your home back to normal. Don’t let a kitchen fire disrupt your holiday season—our skilled professionals are ready to help.

For more tips on holiday fire safety or to learn more about our fire damage restoration services, visit SERVPRO of Spring Valley/Jamul’s website. Stay safe this holiday season!