Rockland County Health Department Focuses on Fire Prevention Week

The Rockland County Department of Health Healthy Neighborhoods Program teamed up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA), the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week ™ for more than 100 years, to promote this year's campaign theme: "Cooking safety starts with YOU. Pay attention to fire prevention." 

The campaign educates everyone about simple but important actions they can take when cooking to keep themselves and those around them safe.

"Cooking fires are one of the leading causes of home structural fires in the United States," says Christopher Kear, Fire Coordinator and Director of the Rockland County Office of Fire and Emergency Services. "From 2014 to 2019, 49% of all cooking fires led to home structural fires. Out of the 49%, 31% of these fires were caused because they were left unattended. This leads to an average of 500 deaths and over 4800 injuries every year. It is imperative that homeowners and occupants pay close attention when cooking."

"We encourage all residents to embrace the 2023 Fire Prevention Week theme," says Shari Stopler, Program Supervisor, Healthy Neighborhoods Program, "and follow these key safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association to help reduce the risk of a cooking fire," 

Watch what you heat. Always keep a close eye on what you are cooking. Set a timer to remind you that you are cooking.

Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove. Always keep a lid nearby when cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner.

Have a "kid- and pet-free zone" of at least 3 feet around the stove or grill and anywhere else hot food or drink is prepared or carried.

Contact the Healthy Neighborhoods Program at (845) 364-2545 or (845) 364-3292 for more fire safety information and a free oven mitt, while supplies last.