Sangamon Sun

Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones, expressing gratitude, and of course, indulging in a sumptuous feast. However, amidst the joyous celebrations, it is important to prioritize safety in the kitchen. According to statistics, Thanksgiving is the leading day for home fires involving cooking equipment. To ensure the well-being of your friends and family this holiday season, it is crucial to take proactive measures and keep safety at the forefront of your mind while preparing food.

One of the key safety tips is to never leave food that you are frying, boiling, grilling, or broiling unattended. This simple precaution can prevent disastrous consequences and ensure that your cooking remains under control. Additionally, creating a "Kid Free Zone" of at least three feet around the stove or any area where hot food or drinks are being prepared can greatly reduce the risk of accidents. By establishing this designated area, you can minimize the chances of children coming into contact with scalding liquids or hot surfaces.

Another essential step in ensuring cooking safety is to keep the area around the stove clear of any potential hazards. It is important to remove towels, papers, potholders, or any items that can easily catch fire. By maintaining a clutter-free environment, you eliminate the risk of these combustible materials igniting and causing a dangerous situation.

In the event of a fire in the oven, it is crucial to remain calm and act swiftly. The recommended course of action is to keep the oven door shut and turn off the heat. This approach helps to contain the fire and prevent its spread. However, if you have any doubts about fighting a small fire, it is always better to prioritize your safety and evacuate the premises. In such cases, promptly call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number from outside the home.

By following these safety measures and staying vigilant in the kitchen, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure a safe Thanksgiving celebration. For further cooking health and safety tips, the Illinois Department of Public Health provides a comprehensive guide on their website.

Remember, Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and joy, and by prioritizing safety, you can create a memorable holiday without compromising on the well-being of your loved ones.

Quotations:

"Thanksgiving is the leading day for home fires involving cooking equipment." - (Source: Unknown)

"Never leave food that you are frying, boiling, grilling or broiling unattended." - (Source: Unknown)

"Create a 'Kid Free Zone' of at least three feet around the stove or anywhere you are preparing hot food or drinks." - (Source: Unknown)

"Keep the area around the stove clear of towels, papers, potholders, or anything that can burn." - (Source: Unknown)

"If there is a fire in the oven, keep the door shut and turn off the heat." - (Source: Unknown)

"If you have any doubt fighting a small fire, just get out! Call 9-1-1 or your emergency number from outside the home." - (Source: Unknown)

Click this link to access more information: https://reprosenthal.com/2023/11/21/holiday-cooking-safety/