SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — As families come together to celebrate Thanksgiving, keeping fire safety in mind is crucial to having a safe and happy holiday.  “Thanksgiving is our peak home cooking fire and that's specific to home cooking fire and when we have about three times the daily average throughout the rest of the year," said San Diego Fire-rescue Department Battalion Chief Stephen Laughlin. Data from the National Fire Protection Association shows unattended cooking causes half (52%) of all reported home fires and nearly two of every five (36%) home fire injuries. It's also a leading cause of home fire deaths (17%). Therefore, keeping a close watch on a hot stove or oven is crucial and potentially lifesaving. "I set a timer. I set it early. I set another one because if I didn’t do that I would forget," explained San Diego resident Kara Dotter. Firefighters stress the importance of having a fire extinguisher in every kitchen. “We never want to use water on an oil fire. It makes the problem worse," according to Laughlin. Additionally, keep flammable items, like dish towels or loose clothes, away from the stove. He also recommends avoiding overloading electrical systems by using a rated circuit breaker while decorating with lights.  If you are frying a turkey, always do so outdoor, away from trees, buildings, or patios, and use the appropriate amount of oil, and never fry a frozen bird. Firefighters also encourage parents to keep kids out of the kitchen while you’re cooking to avoid any potential injuries.  For more cooking safety tips, click here.