Ahead of the upcoming holiday season, the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services’ Office of Fire Prevention and Control has reminded New Yorkers that cooking is the number one cause of house fires and shared some simple but effective tips to staying safe while cooking during the holidays.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 1,400 home cooking fires occur annually on Thanksgiving Day, which is more than three times the amount on any other day.
“The holiday season should be a time of joy and celebration, so be prepared in advance if a cooking fire does occur,” State Fire Administrator James Cable said. “We encourage New Yorkers and their guests to practice safety measures so that everyone can have a happy holiday.”
Reduce fire dangers in your home by:
– never leave cooking unattended.
– if you have a small fire while cooking on the stovetop, smother the flames by sliding a lid or baking sheet over the pan and turning off the burner until cooled.
– for an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the oven door closed.
– keep children away from the stove and areas where hot food is being prepared.
More information is available on the DHSES website: https://www.dhses.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2025/07/cfsbulletincooking.pdf.
OFPC also warned New Yorkers of using fryers with cooking oil because spilled or splashed cooking oil can result in severe burn injuries. Additionally, it is important to remember burning garbage or leaves is prohibited year-round in New York State.
