KVOA

Posted: Nov 23, 2009 4:53 PM
Updated: Nov 23, 2009 11:10 PM

CORPUS CHRISTI -- With Thanksgiving just a few days away, Corpus Christi's fire chief wants to remind people how to have a fire-free holiday.

Last holiday season, two people died in house fires.

This year Chief Andy Cardiel shares some tips to help prevent that from happening again.

"One of the number one fires not only in Corpus Christi, but on a national level, are cooking fires," Cardiel said.

Frying turkeys may be a tradition in your family, but Chief Cardiel says safety's first.

He recommends you inspect the fryer before sticking in the bird.

Also, make sure kids and pets are out of the kitchen, and prepare the turkey before you get started.

Cardiel said, "if the turkey isn't completely thawed if there's any ice or water it's going to react pretty violently when it's introduced to the hot grease and then you could have a steam explosion."

Another safety hazard is Christmas decorations.

You should carefully inspect your lights before you hang them.

Cardiel said, "A lot of times when people tack them to the eaves, they damage the wires and they could short them out."

Also keep your eye out for those live Christmas trees.

It's important to keep them watered and keep the tree away from anything flammable like pillows or blankets.

Chief Cardiel says they average a couple of fires every year where Christmas trees catch fire because they have too many lights or just dried out.

Also make sure your family has a fire plan.

Know how to exit the home and where to meet after you get outside.

These are just a few tips on how you can have a safe and happy holiday.