Safety Tips for Holiday Meal Prep

Getting together with friends and family can be the best part of the holiday season. However, as you start planning for Thanksgiving dinner and other gatherings, you must keep yourself and your guests safe.

Even if you consider yourself an expert chef and know every nook and cranny of your kitchen, you should remain mindful of the following precautions:
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• Prepare your home. Clean appliances by removing any grease buildup and inspect them to ensure they’re working properly. Additionally, check your smoke alarms and strongly consider having a fire extinguisher on hand.
• Avoid fires. Make sure an adult constantly oversees cooking appliances and keeps any flammable materials away from them.
• Consider foodborne illnesses. Store meat, chicken, turkey, seafood and eggs separate from other foods and use a meat thermometer to ensure all dishes have been prepared to a safe temperature. Wash your hands after handling the aforementioned products and clean utensils and surfaces between uses to prevent cross-contamination.
• Clean up as you go. Take care of clutter and spills throughout the cooking process, as such messes could increase the risk of accidents.
• Stay sober. Alcoholic beverages are often enjoyed amid the revelry of the holidays, but when working with sharp utensils and hot surfaces, you should limit your intake.

Provided by Insurance House Risk Solutions  618-997-1311