El Paso Fire Department Holding a Kitchen Safety Demo Today

With Thanksgiving and the rest of the holiday season fast approaching, the El Paso Fire Department would like to remind the public to use caution when cooking their holiday meals and will hold a free kitchen safety demo on Wednesday, November 25, 2015.

Practicing safety in the kitchen will ensure the holiday season is enjoyable for everyone. So on Wednesday Nov. 25 at noon, the El Paso Fire Department will demonstrate the following kitchen safety tips at their Community Outreach Station:

Remember to keep children at least three feet away from the stove when food is cooking.
Never leave food unattended.
While cooking, avoid loose-fitting clothing and always turn pot handles inward.
Don’t leave combustible items like potholders and hand towels on the stove.
Have an all-purpose extinguisher nearby.
Don’t overload electrical outlets.
Never use electrical appliances near water.
Be sure the kitchen is well ventilated to prevent a build-up of carbon monoxide from gas cooking appliances.
Have a working smoke alarm in the same floor as the kitchen.

Thanksgiving Day Cooking Safety Tips:

The El Paso Fire Department would also like to remind the public to never leave a turkey cooking in the oven unattended. Putting the turkey in the oven and going back to bed, going shopping or attending the parade are extremely dangerous practices. Always leave someone attending the oven at all times.

Additionally, those who prefer deep-frying their turkey should follow consider these tips:

Keep outdoor fryers at least 10 feet away from all structures while cooking.
Never fry on a wooden deck, in a garage or under any roof or awning.
Make sure the turkey is completely thawed before cooking.
Never use a fryer in the rain, wind or snow.
Place the fryer on a level surface.
Place the propane tank at least 2 feet away from the fryer.
Choose a turkey under 12 pounds for frying.
Never leave fryers unattended while cooking.
Don’t overheat the cooking oil.
Turn off the burner while placing the turkey into the heated oil.
Wear gloves and eye protection during the submersion process.
Keep a fire extinguisher nearby for safety.
Keep children and pets away from the fryer while cooking.

Remember, unsafe cooking practices can lead to devastating burns, other injuries and the destruction of property. The El Paso Fire Department also urges those who prefer fried turkey to seek out professional establishments, such as grocery stores, specialty food retailers and restaurants, for the preparation of the dish.