As families gather for the holidays, the kitchen is often the busiest room in the house.
But with all that cooking comes a higher risk of fires.
Missouri State Fire Marshal Tim Bean told Missourinet that home cooking fires spike this time of year, and he offers some important reminders to keep everyone safe.
“Using the timer to remind you like your stove or oven is on,” said Bean. “I think a good practice is avoiding wearing loose clothing and dangling sleeves while you’re cooking. Keeping kids and pets out of the cooking area.”
Bean said if you have guests staying over, take a moment to talk about what to do in case of a fire.
“Here’s what you need to do,” said Bean. “Here’s where you need to go. If you don’t stay in a place that you’re familiar with and you’re in the bed asleep and the alarm goes off, you know, so confusion and etcetera.”
Bean reminds Missourians that proper ventilation is critical—not only to reduce fire risks, but also to prevent dangerous carbon monoxide buildup.
Deep-fried turkey has become a holiday favorite for many Missourians—but it can also be dangerous if not done right.
Bean told Missourinet that the number one rule before you drop that bird in the fryer: make sure it’s completely thawed.
“Frozen products in the hot grease, you’ve just created a disaster,” said Bean. “I heard some information earlier this week of your turkey probably should have been set out like a week before you plan on cooking it in a deep fryer.”
Bean also stresses the use proper cooking gloves, keep the fryer outdoors—never in a garage or under a carport—and always have a fire extinguisher close by.
Copyright © 2025 · Missourinet