State Fire Marshal Kevin Sehlmeyer urges fire safety on Thanksgiving Day, which is the leading day for home cooking fires. Consumers who use portable deep fryers to cook turkeys should know the dangers involved and consider an oil-less fryer which is a safer alternative to cook their turkey. Cooking in the kitchen has its own fire risks with stovetops and ovens working overtime, and busy cooks becoming distracted preparing the holiday feast while entertaining guests. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, the average number of reported residential fires more than doubles on Thanksgiving Day compared to any other day of the year. Two-thirds of home cooking fires start when food or cooking materials catch on fire. For tips on preventing home kitchen fires visit michigan.gov/lara
