It's National Home Fire Safety Week, and this year the theme is all about kitchen safety.

While the Airdrie Fire Department is not holding any events for National Home Fire Safety Week, Deputy Fire Chief Linda Masson thinks it is still always a good idea to talk about fire safety in the kitchen.

"More fires begin in the kitchen than in any other room in the home, and residential cooking is the leading cause for fire related deaths."

Masson said some important tips are to never leave food unattended while cooking, and to turn pan handles towards the back of the stove so children don't grab them and accidentally scald themselves. She also shared a few more tips.

"Avoid loose clothing, things with large arms or long fronts that could brush against the heating elements. Never store frequently used items up on the back of the stove where you have to reach across the burner to get them. And if it's not a pot or a pan, it doesn't belong on the stove top."

If you do ignite a blaze in your oven, Masson said you should turn off your appliance and close the door until the fire is extinguished. She also shared what to do if you light a fire on your stovetop.

"If you do get a fire, turn off the stove and smother the flames with the lid of a pot, making sure that you protect your hands with an oven mitt, and of course never throw water or flour on a grease fire."

National Home Fire Safety Week runs November 24-30.

 

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