Gwen Rummell Reporting –
The Division of State Fire Marshal and the National Fire Protection Association are partnering to celebrate Fire Prevention Week.
Fire Prevention Week, held on October 8th through the 14th this year, is a week where fire prevention methods are broadcast to the public. The campaign for 2023 is “Cooking safety starts with YOU” which is aimed at raising awareness for cooking.
Mishaps while cooking is the leading cause of house fires and home fire injuries in the United States. State Fire Marshal and Fire Prevention Bureau Chief Anita Metheny says the main two reasons for cooking fires are distractions and flammable objects.
“When you’re cooking, stay in the kitchen. Not only stay in the kitchen but leave your devices off. Just stay present and focus on the cooking. If you are cooking things that have to be on high heat, you definitely need to make sure that everything is away from your stove that could cause a fire.”
Tips To reduce the risk of cooking fires, always watch what they heat, turn pot handles away from the stovetop, and establish a kid and pet-free zone.
The Fire Prevention Bureau conducts a statewide fire safety poster contest each year. The contest is open to all Ohio school children and is split into the categories of kindergarten through 3rd grade and 4th grade through 6th. Twelve winning posters will receive recognition by the State Fire Marshal’s office.
To find out more about Fire Prevention Week and fire prevention in general, visit www.ohio.gov/fire.
Copyright WTUZ Radio Inc., 2023