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State Fire Marshal Warns of Cooking and Heating Related Fires During Holiday Season

turkey being taken out of ovenFires in South Carolina in 2009 have claimed the lives of 64 people through October 15. Cooking and heating related incidents are the leading cause of residential structure fires in the state, said John Reich, South Carolina State Fire Marshal.

"With the holidays approaching, warm homes and holiday feasts play a major role in our preparations for family gatherings," he said. "It also increases the risks for fire. These fires can be prevented and losses reduced by simply following important safety measures."

Reich recommends these kitchen safety tips:

  • Pay close attention while cooking, especially when using oils and grease.
  • Keep cooking appliances clean of grease build-up, which can easily ignite.
  • Trying to carry a pan that’s on fire is dangerous. It may ignite clothes or spill, causing severe burns.
  • Apply a lid to a small grease fire. It is usually the most effective and safest method of controlling it.
  • If the fire is inside your oven, turn off the heat. Leave the door closed to cut off the fire’s air supply.
  • Keep children away from cooking appliances.
  • Use back burners, when possible.
  • Keep pot handles turned to the inside so they won’t be pulled or knocked over.
  • Check stoves and other appliances before going to bed or leaving your home. Make sure that the units are left in the "off" position.

State Fire Marshal Warns of Cooking and Heating Related Fires During Holiday Season

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Did you know?

The South Carolina Fire Academy began offers basic firefighter training to 16 & 17 year olds via the Learning for Life, Boy Scout Explorer Program. Upon completion of the program and attaining the age of 18, participants can work as volunteer and career firefighters. The program, developed in cooperation with the South Carolina Fire Chiefs Association and the South Carolina Firefighters Association, will help meet the critical shortage of firefighters in rural areas of the state.

The S.C. Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation is pleased to provide various publications in portable document format (PDF). You will need Adobe Reader to view and print these publications.