Memphis Residents Urged to Keep Safety in Mind This Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is here, and for many folks in Memphis, this means a bustling day spent in the kitchen, preparing delicious feasts for family and friends. Amid the warm aroma of turkey and stuffing, itโs essential to take a moment to think about safety. According to fire experts, this time of year comes with its own risks, particularly when it comes to kitchen fires.
Cooking Fires on the Rise
The Memphis Fire Department has been ringing the alarm bells about the increased likelihood of home fires, especially during the colder months and holiday season. In fact, they report that a staggering 45 percent of fires are cooking-related. Itโs not surprising that chaos can reign when youโre juggling dishes and trying to create a perfect holiday spread. Last month, a family on Port Haven Drive found themselves in a scary situation when a fire broke out in their kitchen because a pot was left unattended. Luckily, they evacuated safely, but it serves as a serious reminder.
Be Vigilant in the Kitchen
Qwanesha Ward, a Public Information Officer for the Memphis Fire Department, highlighted the importance of being vigilant while you cook. โMost of the time, fires start when something is left unattended,โ she explained. โWe usually see an uptick in fires during colder months, like during the holidays weโre in right now.โ
Ward emphasized that not only are kitchen fires more prevalent, but so are fires caused by space heaters, adding an extra layer of caution for those cranking up the warmth in their homes. โFrying turkeys can be particularly dangerous,โ she noted, stressing that anyone who chooses to deep fry their holiday turkey should take extra precautions.
Frying Turkey Safely
If youโre planning to fry your turkey this year, pay close attention! Ward suggests that itโs crucial to ensure the turkey is completely thawed and dry before dipping it into the hot oil. โYou want to be prepared just in case something happens,โ she cautioned. Keeping a fire extinguisher nearby and ensuring the frying area is clear of any structures, including your home and porch, is key for safety.
Moreover, itโs wise to create safety zones for children and pets to keep them out of harmโs way. โYou want to just be more vigilant and give safety zones for kids and pets,โ she advisedโall good tips for the bustling day when distractions abound.
Smoke Detectors Can Save Lives
Regardless of how you plan to cook, the overarching message from fire safety officials is to stay alert and ensure your smoke detectors are functioning. During a high-stress kitchen day, those devices can act as lifelines. โYou can always reach out to the Memphis Fire Department to request a free smoke detector,โ Ward mentioned, highlighting this valuable resource for the community.
Stay Safe and Enjoy
As you gather around the dinner table this Thanksgiving, remember that a little foresight can go a long way in keeping your celebration safe. While the focus may be on food, family, and fun, keeping an eye on safety could make all the difference. So, letโs keep our kitchens bubbling with joy and rich aromasโbut remain alert and mindful of potential dangers.
Stay safe, Memphis, and enjoy a very happy Thanksgiving with your loved ones!
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
