GREEN COVE SPRINGS – National Fire Prevention Week is Oct. 4-10, and Clay County Fire Rescue is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!” The campaign highlights simple but important actions everyone can take to keep themselves and those around them safe while cooking.

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 of home cooking fires start with the ignition of food or other cooking materials.

“We know cooking fires can be prevented,” said Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners Gayward Hendry. “Staying in the kitchen, using a timer, and avoiding distractions such as electronics or TV are steps everyone can take to keep their families safe.”

According to NFPA, there is an average of 8,240 fires at restaurants every year, with an average of two civilian deaths, 115 injuries, and $245 million+ in property damage. Clay County Fire Marshal Chief Anthony Roseberry said, “Around 40% of restaurant fires start in the kitchen, and nearly 20% of those can be traced to the stove. Grease buildup in exhaust systems, poorly maintained grease traps and electrical short-circuiting are common causes or restaurant fires. The Clay County Fire Marshal’s Office conducts routine inspections of local restaurants to ensure kitchen exhaust and electrical systems are well maintained and working properly to prevent kitchen fires.

Clay County Fire Rescue 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!” said Clay County Fire Chief David Motes. “A cooking fire can grow quickly, and I have seen many homes damaged and people injured by fires that could easily have been prevented.”

Clay County Fire Rescue wants to share these safety tips to keep your family safe while cooking:

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 and remove the pan from the hot burner.

If you are simmering, baking, roasting or boiling food, check it regularly, remain nearby while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you’re cooking.

You have to be alert when cooking. Avoid substance that can cause drowsiness such as medications, drugs or alcohol.

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. Never pour water on a grease fire.

Have a “kid-free zone” of at least three feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried.

If you would like to request Clay County Fire Rescue to visit your school or organization during National Fire Prevention Week, please visit www.ClayCountyGov.com and select “Online Service Request” at the top of the page. For more information about Fire Prevention Week and cooking fire prevention, visit www.fpw.org.