While Thanksgiving is a time to reflect and be thankful for what we have, it is also a time to practice good safety habits to protect you, your guests, and your property from harm. We’ve discussed Thanksgiving cooking safety tips in terms of proper food preparation to prevent illness and ensure good times. Now, let’s explore some tips to keep everyone safe this holiday season when using your appliances.
Be watchful
The U.S. Fire Administration estimates that nearly 4,000 fires occur each Thanksgiving Day. Since an accidental blaze would more than likely ruin your day, it is important to keep watch if you’re frying your turkey, using your stove, or baking. Should something happen, you will be at the ready to combat the problem. If you need to leave the kitchen and no one is available to stay in the room, set a timer for 10-20 minutes, and when the bell rings, check the food then reset the timer. Repeat until food is ready.
Invest in detection
Make sure that there are working smoke detectors throughout the house. Ideally, there should be a detector in each room as well as the hallways. At a minimum there should be one to two per floor. Since the majority of house fires start in the kitchen, it is important to have a working smoke detector there.
Blend with caution
Sometimes when using a blender or a food processor there is a piece of food that just won’t blend. Rather than having an unsightly lump, many people tend to stick their finger in to loosen the piece from the blade. Before doing this, be sure to turn off the unit and unplug it from the electrical socket. If it is not unplugged, there’s always a chance it could not have shut off completely, putting fingers at risk for injury or severing.
Beware the bread maker
Homemade bread adds a nice touch to a holiday meal, but bread machines get hot to the touch and release scalding steam. Since most bread makers have built in timers, it is unnecessary to monitor the unit while it is baking. If it is necessary, use a potholder or other equipment to protect your hands and do not lean over the unit as steam could burn your face.
Practice stove safety
When using a propane or gas stovetop, avoid wearing a loose-fitting shirt, particularly one with long sleeves. Because gas stovetops use an open flame, the fire danger increases substantially. If using an electric stovetop, be careful to not touch the burner until it cools thoroughly. No matter which type is used, remember to move any cooked food away from the front of the stove. This prevents accidental spilling, and discourages children from pulling hot food off the cooktop.
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Post Author: andyc.
