Smyrna Fire Department Reminds Citizens to “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen”

Smyrna Fire Department is partnering with the National Fire Protection Association to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!” The campaign works to educate everyone about simple, but important actions they can take 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. Almost half (44%) of reported home fires started in the kitchen. Two-thirds (66%) of home cooking fires start with the ignition of food or other cooking materials.

Mayor Mary Esther Reed officially proclaimed October 4 – 10, 2020, as Fire Prevention Week throughout Smyrna. “I urge all of our citizens to join the Smyrna Fire Department and participate in this life-saving campaign,” shared Mayor Reed. “Check your kitchen for fire hazards and practice safe cooking, creating habits that will keep you and your family safe.”

Smyrna Fire Chief Bill Culbertson encourages all residents to embrace the 2020 Fire Prevention Week theme.

“The most important step you should take before making a meal is to “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!” explained Chief Culberton. “ A cooking fire can grow quickly. Unfortunately, we have seen many homes damaged and people injured by fires that could have easily been prevented by individuals remaining in the kitchen while cooking.”

Smyrna Fire Department wants to share safety tips to keep you from having a cooking fire.

• Never leave cooking food unattended. Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling or broiling. If you have to leave, even for a short time, turn off the stove.
• If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you’re cooking.
• You have to be alert when cooking. You won’t be alert if you are sleepy, have taken medicine or drugs, or consumed alcohol that makes you drowsy.
• Always keep an oven mitt and pan lid nearby when you’re cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan to smother the flame. Turn off the burner, and leave the pan covered until it is completely cool.
• Have a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried.

Pictured: Mayor Reed and Smyrna Town Council Members presented the Fire Safety Week Proclamation to Chief Bill Culbertson during the September Town Council Meeting. Pictured (L to R): Tim Morrell, Gerry Short, Steve Sullivan, Smyrna Fire Chief Bill Culbertson, Mayor Mary Esther Reed, Vice-Mayor Marc Adkins, Racquel Peebles, H. G. Cole