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According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking is the leading cause of home fires on Thanksgiving Day. a cooking fire is three times more likely on Thanksgiving than any other day of the year.

"Most fires on Thanksgiving occur between noon and 4 p.m.-the peak cooking hours" says Deputy Fire Marshal Ben Gasner " a lot of fires can be avoided by staying alert and in the kitchen when cooking."

Many home cooking fires are caused by unattended equipment, abandoned material, a heat source left too close to flammable materials, and cooking equipment that is not properly shut off.

The use of turkey fryers-  which use a large amount of cooking oil at high temperatures- also poses a significant danger and can lead to devastating burns, and destruction of property.

If you have a cooking fire, go outside and call 9-1-1 for help. Do not try and fight the fire yourself. Thanksgiving is also a high time for cooking related burns. To prevent scalds and burns, cook on back burners and make sure all pot handles are turned inward so children don't come in contact with them. Appliances that get hot, such as toaster ovens, should also be well out of a child's reach. Have a "kid-free zone" of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drinks are prepared or carried.

The Duluth Fire Prevention office urges you to cook with caution and wishes you a happy Thanksgiving holiday !