10 Tips to Prevent Thanksgiving Burns, Fires

Dunedin's fire marshal says that cooking is the No. 1 cause of home fires and burn injuries in the United States.

Bill McElligott wants to remind Dunedin residents that while "we have the festival of food, we have to be ."

He shared 10 tips for keeping your family safe in the kitchen when the holiday meals are being prepared. He also offers steps you should take in case of fire.

Kitchen Tips:

1. Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling or broiling food.
2. If you must leave the home for even a short period of time, turn off the stove or oven.
3. If you are preparing any food requiring the stove, check on it regularly.
4. Use a timer to remind you of the food on the stove.
5. Do not cook if you are sleepy, have been drinking alcohol or taken drugs that make you tired.
6. Keep the stove clear of items that could catch fire, like potholders, cook books, dish rags or paper towels.
7. Do not store items in the oven, broiler or microwave.
8. Clean excess food and grease off of burners, stove tops and ovens.
9. Wear tight, close-fitted or rolled-up sleeves.
10. Keep a kids-free zone around the stove and cooking areas.

In Case of Fire:

1. Keep a lid nearby to smother small grease fires. Turn off the stove. Leave the pan covered until it has completely cooled.
2. Keep the oven door closed on an oven fire. Turn off the heat.
3. When in doubt, GET OUT! Call 911 after you have left the home. Call from a neighbor's house if you leave without your cell phone.