4 Tips for Safe Holiday Cooking

‘Tis the season to be hungry, right? 

We all know the holidays are a time to be grateful and to give to others. But let’s be honest, it’s also a time to eat our favorite comfort foods! During this happy time of year, our kitchens constantly produce roasts, cookies, pies, and of course, turkey. But with great cooking power comes great responsibility.

Check out these four tips to ensure you’re staying safe in the kitchen so you, your family, and your holiday guests can enjoy some delicious foods without worrying about a fire hazard.

Check your smoke alarms. 

This may seem obvious, but it’s still worth mentioning. Double-check your smoke alarms near the kitchen to make sure they are working properly and the batteries are fresh. With ovens operating more than usual, you can never be too safe to avoid a fire. 

Don’t leave the stove unattended. 

You never know when something can go wrong. Keep an eye on your food as it cooks on the stovetop - you never know when something will boil over, or your skillet could cause a grease fire.

Where is your fire extinguisher?

Many people are unaware they even own a fire extinguisher. Cooking fires can happen quickly - make sure you know where your fire extinguisher is at all times, and maybe watch a quick tutorial on how to use it in an emergency.

Be aware of your pots and pans. 

Regardless if you have children, try to get in the habit of positioning your pot and pan handles toward the back of your stove instead of extending toward the front. The last thing you want is to bump that handle accidentally, and your (hot!) food spills all over you, your kids, or your pet.

Follow these simple tips, and you’re guaranteed a safer holiday season in the kitchen. Happy cooking!