​The One Thanksgiving Item You Should Never Forget

Thanksgiving is just around the corner and Cheyenne Fire Rescue is reminding people to add fire safety to their turkey day menus.

"Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires," said Chief Greg Hoggatt. "There's so much going on in your home, which becomes more of a distraction to those who are doing the cooking."

According to the National Fire Protection Association, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 1,570 home cooking fires on Thanksgiving in 2016, but Hoggatt says many of those fires could have been prevented.

"It comes down to just paying attention," he said. "If you've got a turkey in the oven, you've got pots on the stove cooking, don't walk away from them to go watch the football game, don't let the kids come running through the kitchen grabbing food and things."

If you prefer to fry your turkey, Hoggatt says you'll want to make sure that you're a safe distance from things that will burn, that you use the proper amount of oil and that your turkey is thoroughly thawed and dry.

"Be careful (and) keep the kids away," said Hoggatt. "We want your day to be a happy day, not one of having to call 911 for services."​