Safety First Before the Feast

11/16/2018 (Permalink)

Each November, families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving by preparing a delicious feast, but if you don't practice safe cooking habits, your holiday could become hazardous very quickly. The leading cause of fires in the kitchen are unattended cooking. It's important to stay alert to prevent cooking fires.

• Be On Alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don't use the stove or stove top.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling or broiling food.
• If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that food is cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch on fire away from the stove top--that includes oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains.

If you have a cooking fire, consider he following safety protocols to help keep you and your family safe. 

• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
• For an oven fire turn off the heat and keep the door closed.
• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear path out.
• Keep a lid nearby when you're cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stove. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
• Install a smoke alarm near the kitchen, on each level of the home, and near sleeping areas. Use the teat button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once a year. 

Have a safe Holiday Season!