'Cooking Safely' is the focus of Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 8-14

This week, Oct. 8-14, is Fire Prevention Week, and the theme is Cooking Safety. Cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires and approximately 80% of fires in campus residences start in the kitchen or cooking area. Most cooking fires can be prevented. Here are some tips to keep you safer.

• TURN pot handles toward the back of the stove. Always keep a lid nearby when cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner.
• WATCH what you heat. Set a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• HAVE a “play-free zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared.
• STAY in the kitchen when cooking.
• Cook only when you are ALERT, not sleepy or drowsy from medicine or alcohol.

Video: Reduce Fire Risk By Staying in the Kitchen

PDF (for print): Cooking & Kitchen Fire Safety

Emergency Management & Business Continuity: em.wwu.edu/