Thanksgiving is a big day for kitchens across the country – and with all the extra heat and activity, the Plymouth Fire Department reminds residents to take fire safety seriously while cooking their feasts.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, more than three times as many home cooking fires occur on Thanksgiving than average days. 

To help avoid a destructive and holiday-ruining kitchen fire, the Plymouth Fire Department shares some cooking safety tips from the Minnesota State Fire Marshal:

• Stay in the kitchen while cooking. Any time the kitchen is unattended, turn off the stove and set a timer if there’s something in the oven.
• Keep anything that can catch fire at least 3 feet from the stove or hot appliances.
• If a stove fire starts, turn off the heat and smother the pan with a lid. It is very important to never use water on a cooking/grease fire, as it can make the situation much more dangerous. 
• Call 911 right away – even if it appears that the fire is under control.

Turkey fryers can be especially dangerous if misused. Tips for safely using turkey fryers include:

• Place the fryer at least 10 feet from any structure.
• Thaw the turkey completely and dry it before frying.
• Measure the oil well so it doesn’t spill over when lowering the turkey.
• If lowering by hand, wear oven mitts, long sleeves, pants and closed-toed shoes. Hot oil splatters – it can stick to bare skin and cause severe burns.
• If using a rope, make sure it’s securely fastened to the turkey and lower it slowly.