The Gilbert Fire & Rescue Department is reminding Bay Area residents to prioritize safety during the holiday season. Citing data from the National Fire Protection Association, the department notes that Thanksgiving is the leading day of the year for kitchen and cooking fires. Key safety tips include staying in the kitchen while food is cooking, not leaving the house while the turkey is in the oven, keeping children and pets away from hot surfaces, and maintaining a clutter-free cooking area, according to the City of Gilbert.
The Gilbert Fire & Rescue Department also emphasized the risks associated with turkey fryers, which can pose serious fire hazards. They advise ensuring the turkey is fully defrosted and dry before heating the oil, and recommend using fryers outdoors on flat, stable surfaces away from flammable materials. A fire extinguisher should be kept nearby, and the fryer should never be left unattended to prevent accidents.
Gilbert Fire & Rescue Department also provided guidance on holiday decorating safety. They noted that about one-third of decoration-related fires involve candles, recommending that candles be kept away from flammable items and always extinguished before leaving a room or going to bed. When using ladders to hang decorations, they advise having a partner for safety and checking indoor and outdoor light ratings to prevent electrical issues. For live Christmas trees, the department emphasized regular watering to reduce the risk of fire.
Gilbert Fire & Rescue Department also emphasized the importance of smoke detectors during colder months. Residents are advised to test detectors monthly, clean them twice a year, and replace batteries annually. Smoke detectors should be replaced every ten years to maintain proper function. Following these safety guidelines helps ensure that holiday celebrations remain safe and incident-free.
The Gilbert Fire & Rescue Department’s guidance offers a clear framework for safe holiday celebrations. By following these recommendations, Bay Area residents can help prevent fires and accidents, keeping both their households and the wider community safe during Thanksgiving and the holiday season.
