The Norfolk Fire Division is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Cooking safety starts with YOU. Pay attention to fire prevention.” The campaign works to educate everyone about simple but important actions they can take when cooking to keep themselves and those around them safe.
According to NFPA, cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries in the United States. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of cooking fires and deaths.
“The Norfolk Fire Division encourages all residents to embrace the 2023 Fire Prevention Week theme, ‘Cooking safety start with YOU,’” said Sean Lindgren, Fire Marshal. “A cooking fire can grow quickly. I have seen many homes damaged and people injured by fires that could easily have been prevented.”
Norfolk Fire Division offers these key safety tips to help reduce the risk of a cooking fire.
- Watch what you heat. Always keep a close eye on what you are cooking. Set a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
- Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove. Always keep a lid nearby when cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner.
- Have a “kid- and pet-free zone” of at least 3 feet (1 meter) around the stove or grill and anywhere else hot food or drink is prepared or carried.
The Norfolk Fire Division is hosting a series of events in support of this year’s campaign, including an Open House Public Safety Day, on Sunday, October 8 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Norfolk Public Safety Training Facility at 302 East Benjamin Ave.
To find out more about Fire Prevention Week programs and activities in Norfolk, please contact the Norfolk Fire Division at 402-844-2050.