Fire school reminds public of cooking precautions

During this time of uncertainty regarding the coronavirus and the imposition of self-isolation, the Delaware State Fire School reminds the public of safe kitchen practices.

While cooking brings family members together, it is also the leading cause of home fires and home injuries, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

With people being confined there has certainly been in increase in the number of kitchen fires. Therefore, fire school officials ask that those preparing meals, who may or may not have experience in the kitchen, use caution.

Some points to remember: 

• Be alert! If people are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, they should not use the stove or stovetop. 

• Stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling or broiling food. If people leave the kitchen, they should turn off the stove.

• If food is simmering, baking, boiling or roasting, it should be checked regularly. Anyone cooking needs to remain in the home and use a timer as a reminder that something is on the stove.

• Keep anything that will burn away from the stovetop.

• Make sure working smoke alarms and a kitchen fire extinguisher are nearby.

No one intends to have a fire in their home. Just a few seconds of being inattentive or careless can have tragic results for individuals and families.