Experts are reminding Missourians on how to keep you, your family safe during this holiday season

With the holiday season approaching, the Department of Public Safety is advising Missourians that it also increases the potential for residential fires.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, every day around seven people die from home fires. The U.S. Fire Departments responds to more fire calls during Thanksgiving Day, followed by Christmas Day and Christmas Eve.

These fires usually begin with the increased amount of indoor cooking, turkey fryers, to Christmas trees, decorations and candles.

Assistant Chief Gale Blomenkamp with the Boone County Fire District said deep-frying turkeys is really common, but knowing how to do it, is key.

“Never do it on a combustible surface, so do not fry turkeys on a wooden deck. Do that on a hard surface, away from any combustible materials.” Blomenkamp said.

Experts are reminding people to never leave the kitchen while cooking. Although most people want to relax away from the kitchen while their holiday meals are being cooked, experts said it will only take a second for any fire to start.

Keeping children and your pets away from burning stoves, burning candles is also something to keep in mind. Officials said many people may assume that harm won’t happen to them, but accidents do occur year-round, especially during the holiday season.

State Fire Marshal Tim Bean reminds everyone to check your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, having those and fire extinguishers will come in handy in the event of a fire.

To read more on how to keep you and your loved ones safe this holiday season, click here.