As we come together with our loved ones to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday, the members of EPIC-FSC want to express our deep appreciation for your steadfast support and dedication to our organization. Thanksgiving is a time for reflection and gratitude, and we are genuinely thankful for each and every one of you.
As your friendly neighborhood Fire Safe Council, we urge you to remain vigilant to the numerous opportunities for potential hazards Thanksgiving presents. In the past, we’ve experienced critical fire conditions from dry Santa Ana winds sweeping through the region. It’s worth remembering that last year, these winds were so powerful that they caused a significant power outage in Calabasas. Therefore, let’s stay attuned to local weather updates and ensure we are well-prepared for any emergencies, as safety continues to be our top priority, especially during this festive season.
In the spirit of thankfulness and togetherness, we offer these essential Thanksgiving safety guidelines to ensure that this holiday is free from any unfortunate incidents. Here are some vital safety tips for the occasion:
Kitchen Safety
In general, keep kids and pets out of the kitchen when cooking.
- Stovetop Caution: Always keep an eye on the stovetop and keep the area clear of drapes and other flammable materials to avoid kitchen fires.
- Oven and Stove: Double-check that the oven and stove are off when not in use, especially before leaving the house.
- Burn Prevention: Use oven mitts, hot pads, and heat-safe serving platters to prevent burns while cooking and serving.
- Knife Safety: Cover carving knives and cutlery when not in use, and store them in a safe place, out of the reach of children.
- Child Safety: If hosting kids, ensure you have baby gates, and even child locks on potentially dangerous areas. Also give them child-friendly utensils.
- Candle Safety: Place candles out of reach of flammable areas and extinguish them before going to bed.
- Fire Extinguisher: Place a fire extinguisher with a UL rating in close proximity to the kitchen and familiarize yourself with its operation for emergency situations. Avoid using water on a grease fire and refrain from dousing an electrical fire with water to prevent the risk of electrocution.
Employ the PASS acronym when using the fire extinguisher:
Pull the ring
Aim at the base of the fire
Squeeze the trigger
Sweep back and forth over the fire
Pet Safety for Dogs and Cats:
- Turkey Caution: While plain turkey is safe, be cautious about seasonings, oils, and bones, which can be harmful. Steer clear of offering fatty foods such as ham, bacon, or poultry skin products to your beloved dogs and cats. Food with high-fat content have the potential to lead to upset stomachs and can trigger episodes of vomiting and diarrhea in your furry companions.
- Stuffing and Sides: Stuffing contains ingredients like garlic, onions, and seasoning that can upset your pets’ digestive system. Raw potatoes and gravy should also be avoided.
- Desserts: Avoid giving your pet slices of pie or casserole that contain sugar and sweeteners, which can lead to dental issues and obesity.
- No Alcohol: Keep your pet away from alcoholic beverages as they can cause intoxication, weakness, and even coma or death.
- Bread and Dough: Keep your pet away from dinner rolls and yeast dough, as they can expand in their stomach and cause discomfort or worse.
We hope these safety tips help ensure that your Thanksgiving celebration is both enjoyable and free from accidents. The holiday season is just around the corner with Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and more to celebrate. Now is the perfect time to start preparing for this busy time of year. If you want more information on how to prepare for emergencies or be involved in our community initiatives, visit our comprehensive resource library.