When you have a lot of people in the kitchen and multiple dishes cooking, the risk for fire naturally rises. Nothing will ruin your holidays like a kitchen fire, but you can take steps to minimize the risk. Here are a few tips that will help you avoid having an unwanted fire in the kitchen this year.
Never Leave the Cooking Unattended
It’s an easy mistake to make. You’ve just put the potatoes in to boil when your dear sweet sister calls you to the living room to tell you something. It’s far too easy to get distracted with all the people in the house, but you will have to resist the temptation. Invite her to join you in the kitchen instead. You will be there to monitor the cooking and avoid fires, and you might even get some extra help in the process.
Careful with the Turkey Fryer
Fried turkeys are growing in popularity, but that fryer full or oil and the open flame are a dangerous mix. First, put the turkey in the fryer before you add the oil. Pour the oil in around the turkey and then remove the bird to heat the oil. This way, you will not overfill your container and cause oil to splash out and into the flame when you put the turkey on. Turkey fryers should be used in an open area on concrete to avoid fires and damage.
Have the Children Help in Another Room
Sometimes kids want to help make the meal, but this can be dangerous. They can trip, knock something over or simply distract you from cooking. Send the kids to another room to peel potatoes, mix a salad or just set the table. They will be happy to help, but you won’t have to worry that they are in danger by being in the kitchen.
Know how to Put Fires Out
Keep a few dishcloths in a stack near the sink. If you have a fire on the stove, the first step is to shut down the burner. Then, you should soak a dishtowel with water, wring it out and then lay it over the fire. This method will put out even oil fires safely. Never pour water directly on a kitchen fire as this can make an oil fire worse. If you cannot remember what to do in the event of a fire, that’s okay. Get the family out of the house to keep everyone safe and call the fire department.
Avoiding a kitchen fire this Thanksgiving is not as difficult as you might think. With the right steps, you can protect your family and home from the perils of fire. Don’t let yourself get distracted, and invite guests who want to spend time with you to help in the kitchen. Keep dishrags handy in case of fire, and make sure the kids have something to do in a different area of the house.
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