By Mark Adams
Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and reflection - and caution in the kitchen. New figures from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) show that the risk of a home cooking fire is three to four times greater on Thanksgiving Day compared to a typical day of the year.
And the risk is real. Red Cross volunteers in Los Angeles responded to nearly 300 home fires across the whole of last year - meeting the needs of more than 1,800 people. Responses peaked over the Thanksgiving holiday - as unattended stoves and ovens triggered hazardous fire incidents.
Fortunately there is simple and effective action you can take to stay safe from the threat of fire - and keep calm amid the chaos of Thanksgiving. Follow these eight proven safety tips from the Red Cross:
Smoke alarms are also vital to help keep you and your loved ones safe from the threat of fire. And the Red Cross is here to help you with that - our regular Sound the Alarm events see volunteers provide and install fire alarms for free. Angelenos who need assistance can visit redcross.org/LAHomeFire or call 310-445-9914 to schedule an appointment for a free smoke alarm installation.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org/LA or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCrossLA.