Fire Prevention Week, sponsored by the National Fire Protection Association, is October 4-10, 2015 with the theme “Hear the Beep Where you Sleep” to remind you that every bedroom needs a working smoke alarm. In addition to functioning smoke alarms, there are many safe practices that can help prevent fires and promote electrical safety through your home.

Follow these tips to keep your kitchen safe from electrical and fire hazards:

  • Keep all countertop appliances and their cords away from the sink and heat sources, like the stovetop.
  • Unplug all countertop appliances after use.  Do so by pulling on the plug, not the cord, to avoid damage to the cord.
  • The outlets in your kitchen should have Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection.  Remember to test GFCIs monthly to ensure they are functioning properly.
  • Check the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website for recent recalls of any appliances in your home.
  • Never leave food that is cooking unattended.