Preventing a kitchen fire

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. - Newport News Fire Department fire prevention tips to keep your kitchen cooking safely:

• Keep all combustibles, like paper towels, bags, etc., away from hot appliances, including the stove.
• Remove grease frequently from stoves, broilers, vents, and other cooking appliances.
• Never leave the cooking area unattended. If you must leave briefly, take an item from the kitchen with you to remind you of what's cooking. Even better, turn the heat off while you're away from the kitchen.
• Wear tight fitting sleeves while cooking. Long flowing sleeves, like those on bathrobes or
• nightgowns, can easily brush against hot burners and catch on fire. If your clothes do catch on fire, "stop, drop, and roll" to put the fire out.
• Keep pot and pan handles turned in. A curious child or a busy adult can easily topple a hot pan, and cause a scald burn.
• Have working smoke alarms. Call the Newport News Fire Department Smoke Alarm Hotline at (757)926-8009 to if you need an alarm.