NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. -- With October being National Fire Prevention Month, the City continues to raise awareness about the importance of fire safety, as well as promote life-saving practices and home fire safety education.
There are more home fires on Thanksgiving day than on any other day of the year. Do not let a cooking incident spoil the day. Every home should have working smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms.
Turkey Tips
- Stand by your pan. If you leave your kitchen, turn the burner off.
- Keep an eye on what you fry! Consider using the new “oil-less” turkey fryers. Only use a turkey fryer outdoors at least 20’ from the home structure, on a sturdy surface, and away from things that can burn.
- Roll up your sleeves. This reduces the chance that they will catch fire.
- Supervise children and pets. Make sure they stay away from the stove.
- Watch what you are cooking! If you see any smoke, or grease starts to boil, turn the burner off.
- If there is an oven fire, keep the door closed.
- Turn off the oven and keep the door closed until it is cool.
- Move items that can burn away from the stove. This includes dishtowels, bags, boxes, paper, and curtains.
- Turn the pot handles toward the back of the stove. This is so no one can bump them or pull them over.
If the fire is not quickly extinguished, leave the house and call 9-1-1 from outside.
Winter holidays are a time for families and friends to get together. But that also means a greater risk for fire. Following a few simple tips will ensure a happy and fire-safe holiday season.
Live Christmas Trees
- Choose a fresh tree with dark green needles that do not fall out when touched.
- Cut two inches off the tree trunk before use.
- Place the tree at least three feet away from any heat source.
- Water the tree daily.
- Discard the tree if it becomes dried out.
- Never place dried-out trees in a garage.
- Recycle your Christmas tree.
Candle Safety
- Keep candles at least one foot away from anything that can burn.
- Never leave a burning candle unattended.
- Consider flameless candles.
Home Safe Home
- Replace any worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections.
- Never plug an extension into another extension cord.
- Turn off Christmas tree lights before going to bed at night.
- Take outdoor electrical lights down after the holidays.
- Make sure guests are aware of your home fire escape plan.