For most the best part about the holiday is the time spent with family and friends. A majority of this time is spent in the kitchen making favorite recipes, pies, cookies, and memories that last a lifetime. We here at ServiceMaster want you to have joyful memories and not tragic ones so fire safety is a must in the kitchen during the holidays. Did you know that Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires? On an average the U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 2,500 home cooking fires on Thanksgiving Day. We want to help prevent your home from being one of these statistics so as you start organizing your holiday schedule and preparing that large family feast, remember these few safety tips so you can keep yourself and your family safer from fire.
- Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking. Never leave cooking food unattended especially on the stovetop.
- When cooking your turkey check on it frequently and set a timer.
- If deep-frying, keep the fryer outside, away from all objects and structures, and free from moisture.
- Keep flammable items away from hot cooktops.
- Keep children and pets away from the stove.
- Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip while carrying hot liquids that could cause serious burns.
- Keep knives out of the reach of children.
- Be sure electric cords are in good working order, not damaged and away from heat.
- Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children.
- Make sure all your smoke alarms are working properly by preforming test ahead of time.
- Always have a fire extinguisher on hand and know how to use it.
- In the event of a grease fire -NEVER use water as this will cause the fire to spread. Turn off the burner and douse with baking soda or cover with a lid.
We here at ServiceMaster South of the James want to wish you and your family and Safe and Happy Thanksgiving!!
