10 Tips for a Safe Thanksgiving

As we all pause to give thanks, here are 10 tips to help you keep friends and family safe throughout the celebration.

Stay in the kitchen while cooking on the stovetop.
Have a working ABC, UL fire extinguisher in the kitchen and remember the acronym P.A.S.S.
1. Pull the pin.
2. Aim the spray nozzle at the base of the fire.
3. Squeeze the nozzle to spray the contents.
4. Sweep back and forth as you spray the base of the fire.
Keep a fire-resistant oven mitt close to your cooking area. If a fire starts in a pan, use the oven mitt to pick up the lid and cover the fire. Turn off the stove and do not remove the lid until the pan has cooled.
In the case of an oven fire, keep the oven door closed and turn off the oven to prevent flames from spreading. If the fire does not go out quickly, call 9-1-1.
Never wear loose clothing while cooking as it can catch fire from hot burners or open flames.
Make sure a kitchen smoke alarm is installed and in good working condition before you start cooking.
Never pour water on a grease fire as it is likely to spread. Using a fire-resistant oven mitt, carefully cover the pan, turn off the burner and wait until the pan has cooled before you remove it.
Turn pot handles inward to avoid spills that commonly result in burns.
Never put glass dishes or lids on a stove top. They can overheat and explode.
Unplug small appliances when not in use.

Have a happy and safe Thanksgiving.