Stand By Your Pan

Each year, Cosumnes Fire proclaims October as Fire Prevention Month to promote the National Fire Protection Association's (NFPA) (external) National Fire Prevention Week (external). October 2023's theme is "Cooking safety starts with YOU! Pay attention to fire prevention." While NFPA has highlighted cooking safety in the past, it is worth noting the timely invitation to minimize distractions, especially as we resume the busyness of pre-pandemic life.

Between 2015 and 2019, cooking fires accounted for 49% of home fires, including 42% of home fire injuries and 20% of reported home fire deaths. Importantly, unattended (or even distracted) cooking is largely responsible for these fires and the resulting injury and loss of life.

Thankfully, there are a few simple things that you can do to cook safely in your home.