Ensure a Joyful Holiday Season with Safe Cooking Tips from the Consumer Product Safety Commission

As Thanksgiving approaches, families across the United States are reminded of the heightened risks associated with cooking during the holiday season. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) warns that cooking-related incidents significantly increase over this period, highlighting the importance of safety precautions in the kitchen.

Cooking Risks During Thanksgiving

According to CPSC data, 45% of residential fires each year stem from cooking activities. On Thanksgiving Day alone, approximately 1,400 cooking fires are reported, more than three times the daily average. This alarming number emphasizes the need for vigilance while preparing holiday meals.

“Every year, we see preventable fires and injuries caused by cooking accidents during the holidays,” said CPSC Acting Chairman Peter A. Feldman. He stressed that remaining attentive in the kitchen could prevent devastating outcomes and ensure a joyful holiday experience.

Essential Cooking Safety Tips

The CPSC encourages everyone to adhere to the following cooking safety guidelines:

• Never leave cooking food unattended; always stay near your pan.
• Keep children and pets a minimum of three feet away from the cooking area.
• Store flammable items such as oven mitts, wooden utensils, and food packaging away from heat sources.
• Position pot handles inward to avoid accidental spills and burns.
• If a grease fire occurs, cover the flames with a lid and turn off the burner. Never use water to extinguish a grease fire.
• Have a fire extinguisher accessible and understand how to operate it.

Turkey Fryer Safety

Turkey fryers pose unique hazards, leading to fires and injuries. CPSC advises following the COOK acronym when using a turkey fryer:

• C: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely.
• O: Avoid overheating the oil and select oil with a high smoke point.
• O: Never overfill the oil in the fryer.
• K: Keep the fryer a safe distance from structures, including garages and decks.

Smoke Alarms are Critical

Ensure that smoke alarms are functioning on every level of your home, especially outside sleeping areas and inside bedrooms. Regular maintenance of these alarms can save lives.

For more cooking safety tips this holiday season, visit the CPSC’s Holiday Safety Information Center. By staying informed and implementing these safety practices, families can enjoy a safe and happy Thanksgiving.