Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department President Joe Enste presented a series of holiday safety reminders and updates on ongoing department initiatives during a monthly meeting with the Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors on Nov. 23.

 

Enste emphasized the importance of cooking safety during the Thanksgiving holiday, noting that cooking is the leading cause of home fires during the season.

 

“Make sure you stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling, or broiling. If you have any kitchen appliance on, remain nearby to react quickly if something goes wrong,” he said.

 

He also urged residents to keep flammable items like kitchen towels, potholders, and groceries away from stovetops.

 

“Accidentally turning on a burner could lead to melted plastic or burning food on the stove,” Enste said.

 

For those using turkey fryers, he stressed the need for extra caution.

 

“Make sure the fryer is far away from your house or anything combustible. And if you’re using a frozen turkey, ensure it is fully thawed. Putting a frozen turkey into hot oil can cause a dangerous boil-over and potentially start a fire,” he said.

 

The fire department plans to release safety videos on turkey fryer use through its social media channels this week.

 

Looking ahead to Christmas, Enste highlighted the risks associated with live Christmas trees.

 

“Keep your tree watered, not just before Christmas, but as long as it’s in your home. A dried-out tree can ignite in seconds,” he said.

 

He also advised keeping trees at least three feet away from heat sources, such as fireplaces or space heaters, and using only UL-rated lights on live trees and wreaths.

 

“Avoid purchasing lights that may not meet U.S. safety standards, such as those sold on discount sites,” Enste warned.

 

Enste also provided updates on OPVFD fundraising efforts. The annual truck raffle, featuring a 2024 Ford F-150, will conclude on Dec. 21 following the department’s Santa Ride through the community. Tickets are $100, and the raffle includes all taxes and fees associated with the prize.

 

The department’s holiday Train Garden opened at the North Station on Nov. 23 at 6 p.m. and will run every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through the New Year. The display has doubled in size and is free to the public.

 

Additionally, the weekly Queen of Hearts raffle continues, with the jackpot now exceeding $53,500. Tickets are $5, and drawings are livestreamed on the OPVFD Facebook page each Tuesday at 5:30 p.m.

 

For more information about OPVFD events and initiatives, visit opvfd.com or call 410-641-8272.