Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family and friends, share a meal, and give thanks —but it’s also one of the busiest days of the year for home cooking fires. As your community electric cooperative, Jones-Onslow EMC wants to help you enjoy a safe and happy holiday by sharing a few simple kitchen safety reminders.
- Stay in the kitchen. Whether you’re roasting a turkey or simmering side dishes, never leave cooking food unattended. Unattended stoves and ovens are the leading cause of kitchen fires. If you need to step away, turn off the burners or ask someone to keep an eye on things.
- Keep flammable items clear. Dish towels, oven mitts, paper products, and food packaging should be kept at least three feet away from the stove or oven. A clear workspace is a safer workspace.
- Be careful when frying. If you’re deep-frying a turkey, do it outdoors on a flat, open surface—away from structures, trees, and wooden decks. Make sure the turkey is completely thawed and dry before it goes into the oil and never leave the fryer unattended.
- Watch out for children and pets. The kitchen can get hectic on Thanksgiving Day. Keep little ones and pets at least three feet away from the stove and hot food preparation areas to prevent burns and spills.
- Check your smoke alarms. Before the big day, test your smoke detectors to ensure they’re working properly. Having a working alarm is one of the simplest ways to protect your home and loved ones.
Taking a few extra minutes to follow these safety tips can make the difference between a joyful celebration and an emergency. From all of us at Jones-Onslow EMC, have a safe, warm, and wonderful Thanksgiving filled with good food, laughter, and gratitude