Practice safety while cooking for Thanksgiving

The kitchen is the heart of every home, especially during the holidays. Most kids love to be involved in holiday preparations. We want you to remember that safety in the kitchen is  important during this time. Holidays bring more people and activities into the home.

• You should always stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stove top so that you can keep an eye on the food.

• If you are cooking a turkey or ham, stay in the home to check it frequently. Children should not be closer than 3 feet of the stove.

• Be aware of children around hot foods and liquids such as steam from vegetables, hot gravy and or coffee. These can cause serious burns to children and adults.

• Knives should always be kept out of the reach of children.

• Make sure that cords from coffee makers, electric knifes, mixers, etc. are not dangling off of the counter within easy reach of a child.

• Push the test button on your smoke alarms to make sure that they are properly working.

• If you are deep frying a turkey, wear protective gear to avoid burns from oil splatters. Always deep fry outdoors.

• Try to plan activities that will keep the children out of the kitchen during this busy time of the year. Games, puzzles and books are great activities to keep them occupied during this time. It is great to allow children to help in the preparation of family meals before the cooking begins.

We hope that everyone has a restful and wonderful Thanksgiving. 

Felicia Mull is the  public information officer for the Clay County Fire and Rescue. She can be reached at (828) 389-6905.