For Immediate Release: Thursday, February 8, 2024
Contact: Office of Communications, Communications@MyFloridaCFO.com, 850.413.2842

CFO & State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis: Don’t Let Your Superbowl Party Go Up in Flames

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis shared important fire safety information to ensure Floridians enjoy Superbowl LVIII this weekend. The CFO encourages football fans to keep a fire extinguisher nearby when grilling out and keep an eye on children while in the kitchen.

CFO & State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis said, “As you cheer on the Kansas City Chiefs or the San Francisco 49ers in Superbowl LVIII this Sunday, don’t let the big game party turn into a fire tragedy. Superbowl parties are a great time to spend with family and friends but the fun can go away ‘swiftly’ if a fire breaks out. Before your guests arrive, test your smoke detectors and treat them like a pre-game warmup. Make sure you have an escape plan and practice it with your family like football drills to get everyone on the same page. Lastly, don't fumble with grease fires! Use a lid to smother them and always have a fire extinguisher nearby when cooking or grilling out. By following a few fire safety tips, you can help ensure a fire won’t blitz your Superbowl party.”

Superbowl Fire Safety Tips:

• Take Caution when Cooking Out. Do not leave a lit grill unattended and make sure that you are actively supervising whenever the grill is in use. Place your barbecue well away from any structures, branches, or trees that could easily catch fire and spread.

• Make sure you have working Smoke Alarms. Before any party or event, check every smoke alarm and fire extinguisher to ensure they are in working order.

• Keep an Eye on Kids and Pets. Keep children and pets away from open flames or the grill. Keep matches and lighters up high in a locked cabinet and stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop.

• Don’t let Decorations Ruin the Day. Items like paper streamers or table clothes can catch fire in an instant. Keep all decorations away from open flames and other heat sources like heaters and light bulbs, and be sure exits are clear of decorations in case of emergency.

• Beware of Electrical Outlets and Cords. Don't overload electrical outlets – it's like overloading a wide receiver with too many targets, sparks may fly!

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About CFO Jimmy Patronis  
Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is a statewide elected official and a member of Florida’s Cabinet who oversees the Department of Financial Services. CFO Patronis works each day to fight insurance fraud, support Florida’s firefighters, and ensure the state’s finances are stable to support economic growth in the state. Follow the activities of the Department on Facebook (FLDFS) and Twitter (@FLDFS).