Local News

During Fire Prevention Week, the American Red Cross Cascades Region reminds everyone that cooking is the leading cause of home fires and offers safety steps to follow to help avoid one of these blazes.

Dawn Johnson, Regional Communications Director for the Red Cross, said the top reason for cooking fires is someone leaving the stove unattended while cooking.

The Red Cross offers 10 steps to help stay safe while cooking:
1) If you are frying, grilling or broiling food, never leave it unattended.
2) Don't wear loose clothing or sleeves that dangle while cooking.
3) If you're simmering, baking or roasting food, check it regularly.
4) Use a timer to remind yourself that the stove or oven is on.
5) Keep kids and pets away from the cooking area.
6) Keep anything that can catch fire away from your stove or oven.
7) Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.
8) Consider keeping a fire extinguisher in your kitchen.
9) Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the house.
10) Install a smoke alarm in or near your kitchen.

If you cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install one, the Red Cross may be able to help you. Contact your local Red Cross for more information.

Since October 2014, the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign has saved at least 1,928 lives by educating families about fire safety, helping them create escape plans and installing free smoke alarms in high-risk areas across the country. To learn more about the campaign and how you can get involved, visit "redcross.org/homefires."