Many families gather in the kitchen to spend time together, but it can be one of the most hazardous rooms in the house if you don't practice safe cooking behaviors. Cooking is the third leading cause of fire deaths and the leading cause of injury among people ages 65 and older in the U.S.

It's a recipe for serious injury or even death to wear loose clothing (especially hanging sleeves), walk away from a cooking pot on the stove, or leave flammable materials, such as potholders or paper towels, around the stove. Whether you're cooking the family holiday dinner or a snack for the grandchildren:

*  Never leave cooking unattended. A serious fire can start in just seconds.

*  Always wear short or tight-fitting sleeves when you cook. Keep towels, pot holders and curtains away from flames.

*  Never use the range or oven to heat your home.

*  Double-check the kitchen before you go to bed or leave the house.

Source: U.S. Fire Administration