State Fire Marshal Bruce West
Officials are urging Minnesotans to keep a close eye on what’s happening in the kitchen as you prepare that Christmas feast. State Fire Marshal Bruce West says don’t get distracted by a phone call, e-mail or text, because turning your back in the kitchen can very quickly become a disaster. Keep a lid or fire extinguisher handy to smother grease fires — and *never* use water which will just spread the fire around. West also urges Minnesotans during their holiday festivities to keep candles well away from any flammable materials and never leave them unattended. Kitchen mishaps and open flames are among the top causes of residential fires in Minnesota and the risk increases during the holidays.