By RANDY RICHMAN
It’s that time of year again – Cooler temperatures, shorter days, changing our clocks, and the holiday season! Be sure to keep these fall fire safety tips in mind:
Change your smoke detector batteries when you change your clocks for daylight savings time, which ended Nov. 3. The U.S. Fire Administration recommends smoke detectors be tested monthly, batteries changed twice a year, and detectors replaced every 10 years.
Establish and practice a fire escape plan with your family that includes a designated meeting area outside the home.
Don’t leave cooking food unattended on the stove.
Looking to deep fry your Thanksgiving bird? Keep these tips in mind:
Keep outdoor fryers off decks, out of garages and a safe distance away from trees and other structures.
Make sure the turkey is thawed and dry before cooking. Ice or water that mixes into the hot oil can cause flare-ups.
Turn off the burner before lowering the turkey into the oil. Once the turkey is submerged, turn the burner on.
Wear goggles to shield your eyes, use oven mitts to protect your hands and arms and keep a grease-rated fire extinguisher close by.
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Randy Richman is a captain in the Brookfield Township Volunteer Fire Department, a part-time Brookfield firefighter and paramedic, and a firefighting instructor.

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