MINEOLA, N.Y., Nov. 25, 2009 — As Long Island residents prepare Thanksgiving Day meals, the American Red Cross in Nassau County urges families to be cautious in the kitchen and to take action to prevent a home fire.

Cooking fires are more likely to occur on Thanksgiving Day than any other day of the year according to the National Fire Protection Association. In fact, each year more than 4,000 fires occur on Thanksgiving Day.

“Unattended cooking is the leading cause of Thanksgiving Day home fires, and it’s easy to understand why,” said Frank Cassano, CEO of the Nassau Red Cross. “It’s so easy to become distracted and lose track of what’s happening in the kitchen when you are enjoying spending time with family and friends.”

To prevent kitchen fires, the Red Cross recommends that you keep potholders and food wrappers at least three feet away from heat sources while cooking. In addition, stoves, ovens, and ranges should be turned off if the responsible adult leaves the kitchen. Also, set timers to keep track of turkeys and other food items that require extended cooking times.

If you plan to use a turkey fryer this holiday season, the American Red Cross strongly recommends that you follow all manufacturer guidelines regarding the use of these appliances.

If you are entertaining guests, it’s a good idea to designate a responsible family member to walk around the home making sure that all candles and smoking materials are extinguished once guests leave.

Finally, it’s important for every household to make sure to have working smoke alarms. In a recent study commissioned by the Red Cross and National Fire Protection Association, 37 percent of respondents admitted to disabling a smoke alarm when it went off unexpectedly. The Red Cross encourages people to install smoke alarms on every level of their house and outside sleeping areas and to test the batteries once a month.

The Nassau Red Cross responds to over 100 home fires each year. Last year, nearly 500 Nassau residents were provided emergency assistance including shelter, food, counseling, and more. This support is dependent on the generous financial contributions of Long Islanders. You can help the Red Cross continue to be ready to respond and help fire victims by making a financial contribution to the American Red Cross in Nassau County today. For more Red Cross fire safety and preparedness information visit www.nassauredcross.org or call (516) 747-3500.

# # #