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Holiday
Safety Tips
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 your local Fire Department.
We, the Fire Educators of Dakota County hope you have safe and happy
holidays!
Link
to MN State Fire Marshal site on holiday safety >>>
Content updated on:
12-Nov-2008
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