See video — https://youtu.be/jsVty0g33m4

Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen is the theme of this year’s national Fire Prevention Week campaign. Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries in the U.S.

Here are some tips:

* Never leave cooking food unattended. If you have to leave, even for a short time, turn off the stove.

* Use a timer to remind you that you’re cooking.

* You have to be alert when cooking. You won’t be alert if you are sleepy, have taken medicine or drugs, or consumed alcohol that makes your drowsy.

* Always keep an oven mitt and pan lid nearby when you’re cooking, If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan to smother the flame. Turn off the burner and leave the pan covered until it is completely cool. DO NOT TRY TO EXTINGUISH A COOKING FIRE WITH WATER!

* Have a “kid-free-zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried.

* Call 911 immediately. Execute your home fire escape plan.

Neighboring Holland has created a video about kitchen fires — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MK3owUTqJAU

SHAES firefighter Tim is pictured at a recent residential kitchen fire.