Fire Prevention Week – “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!”

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This Fire Prevention Week, October 4 - 10, Caledon Fire & Emergency Services remind residents to stay in the kitchen and be alert while cooking. This year’s campaign works to educate everyone about simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe.

“Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home fires and almost half of reported home fires start in the kitchen,” said Fire Chief Darryl Bailey. “We know that cooking fires can be prevented. Staying in the kitchen, using a timer, and avoiding distractions such as electronics or TV are steps everyone can take to keep families safe in their homes.”

Keep these safety tips in mind to prevent a cooking fire:

  • Never leave cooking food unattended. If you must leave, even for a short time, turn off the stove.
  • If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly. Use a timer to periodically remind you to check on the food.
  • Be alert when cooking. You won’t be alert if you are sleepy, have taken medicine or drugs, or consumed alcohol.
  • Always keep an oven mitt and pan lid nearby when you’re cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan to smother the flame. Turn off the burner, and leave the pan covered until it is completely cool.
  • Have a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried.

“The most important step you should take before making a meal is to ‘Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!’ said Bailey.  “A cooking fire can grow quickly. I have seen many homes damaged and people injured by fires that could easily have been prevented.”

Follow the Town of Caledon on Facebook and Twitter to learn more about fire safety throughout Fire Prevention Week. For more general information about fire safety and home escape planning, visit www.fpw.org or caledon.ca/prevention or mcscs.jus.gov.on.ca

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Media Contact:

Strategic Initiatives | Communications
905.584.2272 x.4108 | communications@caledon.ca