Stay Safe While Cooking This Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and food—but it's also the peak day for home cooking fires. Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services and the National Fire Protection Association urge everyone to make fire safety part of your holiday plans.

General Cooking Safety Tips:

• Stay in the kitchen when cooking. If you need to leave, turn off the burners.
• Use a timer to remind you food is on the stove or in the oven.
• Keep flammable items—like oven mitts, towels, and packaging—away from heat sources.
• Avoid loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
• Never cook if you're extremely tired or have been drinking alcohol.
• Keep kids and pets at least 3–4 feet away from hot appliances.
• Make sure smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working.

Turkey Fryer Safety Tips:

• Use fryers outdoors only, away from structures and flammable materials.
• Place the fryer on a flat, stable surface—not on a deck or in a garage.
• Don’t overfill with oil. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• Fully thaw the turkey (at least 24 hours in the fridge) before frying.
• Lower the turkey slowly to avoid oil splatter or overflow.
• Monitor oil temperature—keep it at or below 350°F.
• Wear safety goggles and heat-resistant gloves.
• Let oil cool completely before handling or storing.

For more safety tips, visit GwinnettSafety411.com.