Thanksgiving remains the leading day for home cooking fires nationwide, with incidents surging 388% higher than the daily average, according to new data from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). More than half of all home fires on Thanksgiving stem from cooking, and 36% of all home fire injuries occur during the holiday.
With thousands of Rockland residents preparing their holiday meals, the Rockland County Department of Health is urging the community to take extra precautions in the kitchen to prevent disaster.
Unattended cooking continues to be the number one cause of Thanksgiving fires. The NFPA warns that stovetops, ovens, toaster ovens, air fryers, microwaves, and grills should never be left unattended — even briefly.
County officials shared several essential safety reminders:
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Stay in the kitchen and do not leave your home while cooking.
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Keep flammable items away from heat sources.
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Supervise children around stoves, hot foods, candles, and electrical cords.
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Check and test your smoke alarms — monthly testing is recommended, and alarms should be replaced every 10 years.
“Thanksgiving should be a time to give thanks and enjoy the company of family and friends,” said Dr. Mary Leahy, Rockland County Commissioner of Health. “Take a few simple precautions in the kitchen and around the home to help ensure a happy and safe holiday for all.”
Christopher Kear, Fire Coordinator and Director of the Rockland County Office of Fire and Emergency Services, added: “Every home should have working smoke alarms, especially on a day filled with cooking. Smoke alarms save lives, so make sure yours are tested and operational before the Thanksgiving holiday.”
Rockland County’s Healthy Neighborhoods Program is offering FREE smoke and carbon monoxide alarms for eligible residents. For more information, call (845) 364-3290 or email healthyneighborhoods@co.rockland.ny.us.