The Stratford Fire Department is urging locals to take easy precautions to keep families safe and prevent kitchen fires as the Christmas cooking season gets underway. Cooking continues to be the primary cause of home fires in the country, according to fire officials, and taking additional care in the kitchen can lower the chances during crowded events.

Residents are encouraged to follow these safety tips: • Stand by your pan. If you need to leave the kitchen, turn the burner off. • Turn pot handles inward to prevent bumps or accidental spills.• Watch heat levels — if grease smokes or boils, turn the burner off. • Keep a lid or baking sheet nearby to safely smother a small pan fire. • Practice a home escape plan with all household members regularly.