Cooking Safety

Christmas is a time for gathering as a family around the tree or dinner table – not the fire extinguisher. But home fires involving cooking peak on major holidays such as Christmas Eve and Christmas.

Additionally, shop unattended cooking equipment is the leading cause of home cooking fires, according to Electrical Safety Foundation International.

So be safe this holiday season by following common-sense cooking practices in the kitchen. Take these tips from the National Fire Protection Association, as well.

• Stay in the kitchen while cooking on the stovetop.

• Remain home when cooking your turkey, ham or duck and check on it frequently.

• Always keep children at least three feet away from the stove or oven; this distance will keep them safe from steam or splashing from vegetables or gravy.

• Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over pets, bags or toys.

• Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker or mixer are not dangling to where a child could easily reach it.

• Keep matches and utility lighters high in a locked cabinet – out of the reach of children.

• Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle or warming device.

• Make sure your smoke alarms are working and contain fresh batteries; test them often to ensure their optimal working condition.