CHARLESTON, W.V. – As Fire Prevention Week™ approaches, the WV State Fire Marshal’s Office
reminds residents that “Cooking safety starts with YOU. Pay attention to fire prevention”.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking is the leading cause of home fires and
home fire injuries in the United States. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of cooking fires and
deaths. The WV State Fire Marshal’s Office encourages all residents to embrace the 2023 Fire
Prevention Week theme.
The WVSFMO wants to share these key home fire escape planning tips:
- 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 (1 meter) around the stove or grill and
anywhere else hot food or drink is prepared or carried.
This year’s FPW celebration also includes the 6 th Annual WVSFMO Fire Safety Poster Contest.
Posters with relevant fire safety themes will be chosen from hundreds of student participants. 12
statewide winners within the grade levels ranging from kindergarten to 5th Grade will then see their
artwork displayed on the 2023 WVSFMO Fire Safety calendar.
For more information about Fire Prevention Week and fire prevention in general, visit fpw.org and sparky.org.