How to Stay Safe Cooking Thanksgiving Dinner

Thanksgiving Day is the busiest time of year for fire departments responding to cooking fires. Deputy State Fire Marshal Alyson VanCleave says there are some strategies home chefs can use to keep everyone safe.

"Some of our top safety tips include: Staying in the kitchen while you are cooking. Also, be alert while you're cooking, so that we recommend that you not use the stove if you are distracted, sleepy or have consumed alcohol. We also recommend that you keep anything that can catch fire such as oven mitts, food packaging or dish towels away from the stove top while cooking."

She also stressed the importance of having a working smoke alarm in every sleeping room, and on every floor of home.

"We also see an increase in candle fires during this time of year. Be cautious that you don't leave lit candles unattended and keep kids away from candles during the holiday season."

Van Cleave says the best way to be thankful is to be as safe as possible.

Here are some more tips:

• Use caution with turkey fryers. Use oil-free models if possible and never fry a frozen turkey.
• Never use turkey fryers indoors or on a wooden deck.
• If you leave the kitchen, even for a short period of time, turn off the stove.