Fire Prevention Week is the nation’s longest-running public health observance on record.

Fire Prevention Week takes place October 8th -14th and this year's theme of "Cooking safety starts with YOU. Pay attention to fire prevention," works to educate everyone about simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe when cooking.

According to NFPA data, cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries. Below are a few quick tips to help prevent cooking fires:

• Stand by your pan. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of cooking fires and deaths. If you leave the kitchen, turn off the burner.
• Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you must leave the kitchen, even for a short time, turn off the stove.
• Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove so no one can bump them or pull them over.
• Always keep a lid nearby when cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner.
• When your grill is in use, it should be kept in an open space, away from anything that might catch fire. Never leave a lit grill unattended.
• Watch what you heat. Set a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep the stovetop, oven, and burners clean.

More info and tips to be shared in the coming weeks!