MANKATO, Minn. -
The holidays are a time of family, food, fun--and unfortunately fires.
Mankato Department of Public Safety Deputy Director Jeff Bengtson says, "During the holiday season we are especially concerned with the risk of fire, most often it is because we are cooking more."
Bengtson says cooking is the leading cause of fires in Mankato and across the country.
Bengtson says, "As we entertain over the holiday season to we tend to get distracted."
The most common culprit is food left unattended, so if you are doing the cooking, you can't worry about entertaining your guests or the big game on TV.
It can mean the difference between calling family and friends to the dinner table or calling the fire department to put out a fire.
Bengtson says, "Do call 911 right away if you have any problems, you can always call back and say, oh its under control it wasn't a problem after all, but the fire department would like to get notified quickly so we can get there soon."
Thinking about deep–frying a turkey?
Bengtson says, "It can be done safely."
It can also go terribly wrong, so Bengtson says make sure you follow the directions, cook it outside away from the house, and have a fire extinguisher handy. A fire extinguisher is also a must in your kitchen.
Bengtson says, "Make sure that it is charged, that it is not expired and know how to use it."
Thanksgiving weekend is known not only as a time to feast, but also as a time start putting up Christmas lights and decorations.
Bengtson says, "Inspect your power cords, make sure they aren't frayed or warn, use a heavy gage power cord or extension cord, rather than those real thin white or brown extension cords that are really not meant for outdoor use."
And while you might want to really get into the holiday spirit, make sure to not overload your circuits.
Bengtson says, "Be aware of how many lights you are stringing together, because if you add to many you can overload that circuit and you could also cause a fire that way."
And always remember, if something does go wrong.
Bengtson says, "Our own safety comes first well ahead of our belongings so if you are at any risk or any danger get out immediately."
