Holiday Fire Safety

With the holiday season upon us; it is time to think safety. Cooking fires are still the number one cause of fires today. Why?

We talk about working smoke detectors and practicing escape plans. We teach children to stop, drop and roll, so why not teach adults to cook. Cooking equipment is estimated to be associated with more than 100,000 fires annually and almost 400 deaths and 5000 injuries. Let's work together to make these holidays safe. Here are some ideas:

Kitchen Safety Tips:

• Never place or store pot holders, plastic utensils, towels and other non- cooking equipment on or near the range because these items can be ignited.
• Roll up long sleeves; they are more likely to catch on fire than short sleeves.
• The most important part is to keep constant vigilance on any cooking that is required above the keep warm setting. Use timers to keep track of time. More kitchen fires start by leaving the kitchen and doing other activities.

Candle Safety Tips:

• Always keep a burning candle within sight. Extinguish all candles when leaving a room or before going to sleep.
• Never burn a candle on or near anything that can catch fire. Keep burning candles away from furniture, drapes, bedding, carpets, books, paper and flammable decorations.
• Keep candles out of the reach of children and away from pets. Do not place lighted candles where they can be knocked over by children, pets or anyone else.
• Read and carefully follow all manufacturer instructions.
• Trim candlewicks to ¼" each time before burning. Long or crooked wicks cause uneven burning and dripping.
• Always use a candleholder specifically designed for candle use. The holder should be heat resistant, sturdy and large enough to contain any drips or melted wax.
• Extinguish the flame if it comes too close to the holder or container. For a margin of safety, discontinue burning a candle when 2 inches of wax remains, ½" if in a container.
• Do not use a candle for a light to find things in the dark. Flashlights are safer.

If you have any questions, please contact Apple Valley Fire Department at 952- 953-2600.

The Apple Valley Fire Department hopes you have safe and happy holidays!