Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen This Thanksgiving

Published on November 21, 2025

As you start preparing your holiday schedule and organizing that large family feast, be sure to follow a few simple safety tips so you can enjoy time with your loved ones and keep yourself and your family safer from fire.

“Cooking fires can be prevented,” said Jim Harton, Cit of Melbourne Fire Inspector. “Staying in the kitchen while cooking, using a timer, and avoiding distractions are steps everyone can take to keep families safe in their homes."

The Melbourne Fire Department offers the following safety tips to prevent cooking fires:

• Turkey fryers that use cooking oil are not safe. These fryers use large amounts of oil at high temperatures, which can cause devastating burns. Consider purchasing an infrared fryer, air fryer, or electric turkey fryer, that has been listed by a qualified testing laboratory.
• Never leave cooking food unattended. Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling or broiling food. 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.
• 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.

To find out more about fire safety in Melbourne, please contact the Melbourne Fire Prevention at 321-608-7900. View more Thanksgiving cooking safety tips on the National Fire Protection Association website.