As we approach the holiday season, residents of Franklin County will be engaging in various family activities, celebrations, and community events. With Thanksgiving coming up on Thursday, many of us will be spending time in the kitchen preparing festive meals in the coming days. The Fiscal Court and the Franklin County Fire Department want to emphasize the importance of safety during holiday cooking. Please take note of the following safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association to ensure a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving celebration:
- Stay in the kitchen while cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.
- Stay at home when cooking your turkey, and check on it frequently.
- Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay three feet away.
- Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy, or coffee could cause serious burns.
- Keep knives out of the reach of children.
- Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer, or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
- Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
- Never leave children alone in a room with a lit candle.
- Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids, toys, pocketbooks, or bags.
- Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.
For more information: https://www.nfpa.org/education-and-research/home-fire-safety/thanksgiving