Thousands of families lose their homes and, unfortunately, sometimes their lives, to house fires every year.

As tragic as this is, it is doubly so when it is due to something that could have been prevented.

In the coming weeks, families will begin to assemble to share meals and spend time together as the holidays approach.

A sad truth is, however, that one of the most preventable causes of house fires – kitchen fires – occurs during the holidays as well, turning a joyous time into a time of sorrow and grief.