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: