May 24, 2013

Weather

A Few Clouds

52°
Feels Like: 48 °
Conditions at Omaha, Eppley Airfield, NE
Save Email Print Bookmark and Share
Posted: Wed 8:57 AM, Nov 21, 2012
A A
Reporter: WOWT Email

Red Cross Thanksgiving Safety Tips

Thanksgiving is all about food and family – turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, pumpkin pie and family time.

However, preparing holiday goodies can lead to disaster - the kitchen is the setting of more fires than any other room in the house, and cooking is the leading cause of fires in the home.

  • Other Safety Tips:
  • Check food regularly while cooking and remain in the home while cooking. Use a timer as a reminder that the stove or oven is on.
  • Keep the kids away from the cooking area. Enforce a “kid-free zone” and make them stay at least three feet away from the stove.
  • Keep anything that can catch fire - pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains—away from the stove, oven or any other appliance in the kitchen that generates heat.
  • Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.
  • Purchase a fire extinguisher to keep in the kitchen. Contact the local fire department to take training on the proper use of extinguishers.
  • Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the home to make sure all stoves, ovens, and small appliances are turned off.
  • Install a smoke alarm near the kitchen, on each level of the home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside bedrooms. Use the test button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once a year.

The American Red Cross has safety steps to use while preparing the Thanksgiving feast.

"Family chefs need to consider safety as the most important ingredient in their holiday cooking plans," said Tina Labellarte, Region CEO. "Following the Red Cross safety tips can help cooks avoid the type of unfortunate kitchen accident that can ruin this special time of year."

The cooks should start by not wearing loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking. Never leave cooking food unattended – stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling food.

If someone must leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, they should turn off the stove.

Next Story >
Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station.
powered by Disqus

Political Headlines

No Items Retrieved from Feed.