CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – The holiday season is upon us, and most families are already planning their Thanksgiving meals.

According to Clarksville Fire Rescue, Thanksgiving is the #1 reported day day for cooking-related fires, followed by Christmas Day, Christmas Eve and the day before Thanksgiving.

The leading cause of these fires was unattended cooking.

With the added difficulty of COVID-19 this holiday season, it might be that there are fewer people home to help with the cooking, further adding to the potential risk.

Tips from the pro’s

Clarksville Fire Rescue offers the following tips to have a safe Thanksgiving:

  • While cooking on the stovetop, stay in the kitchen and keep an eye on the food.
  • While cooking your turkey, plan to be home and check on your bird regularly.
  • Keep kids at least 3 feet away from the stove, hot foods and liquids to avoid serious burns.
  • Keep knives and electrical appliances away from children
  • Keep floors clean to avoid tripping hazards, especially when carrying hot dishes.
  • Make sure smoke alarms are working. Press the test button to make sure the batteries have a charge.

Fried Turkey: delicious and dangerous

Another leading cause of Thanksgiving accidents is turkey fryers.

While delicious, frying turkey can be very dangerous, causing large fires and explosions if improperly handled.

Many food retailers sell deep fried turkeys already prepared. CFR also recommends new “oil-less turkey fryers as a safe alternative. However, if you are set on frying your own turkey, here are some tips for doing so safely:

  • Keep outdoor fryers off decks, out of garages and a safe distance from trees and other structures
  • Make sure your turkey is completely thawed before cooking. Ice and water mixing with hot oil can cause dangerous flare ups.
  • Never operate a fryer in rain or snow for this same reason.
  • Make sure your fryer is on a level surface.
  • Maintain 2 feet of distance between your propane tank and burner.
  • Choose a small turkey for frying. 8 to 10 pounds is recommended.
  • Turn off the burner before lowering your turkey into the oil. Once the turkey is fully submerged, the burner can be turned back on.
  • Skip the stuffing and avoid water-based marinades for fried turkey.
  • Keep children and pets away from the fryer
  • Make sure to use protective eyewear and oven mitts and make sure you have an “ABC: or grease-rated extinguisher close by.
  • If you have a fire, DO NOT use water or a garden hose to put it out.