Fire safety tips ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday

For many, enjoying homemade Thanksgiving classics like turkey and mashed potatoes is one of the best parts of the holiday. However, cooking a full holiday spread could come at a cost if proper fire safety precautions are not taken.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, 3 to 4 times as many home kitchen fires occur on Thanksgiving Day than any other day in the U.S.

The NFPA cites distracted cooking as the leading cause of homes fires in the U.S., especially during the holiday season.

The following tips can help you reduce the risk of fires this Thanksgiving holiday:

-Never leave your kitchen unattended when cooking on a stovetop.

-Remain at home while cooking your turkey and check on it regularly.

-Keep flammable objects like oven mitts and rags away from the cooking area.

-Always keep a lid beside your pots and pans. If a fire occurs while you are cooking, smother it with the lid and turn off your burner.

-Keep children at least 1-meter away from the stovetop and oven.

-Try to avoid frying your turkey as fryers increase the risk of fires and bodily injuries.

News Channel 3's Tatum Larsen is in the process of speaking with Palm Springs Fire Captain Nathan Gunkel for more helpful tips on how you can stay safe this holiday season.

Watch News Channel 3 at 4 p.m., 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. for additional details.