Thanksgiving is right around the corner and it’s an exciting time full of family, friends, and (of course) food! In all the gobbles of fun and activity, however, it can be easy to become distracted, particularly while cooking.

Did You Know?

Thanksgiving is the leading day of the year for home fires involving cooking equipment.

Stay Safe

Kids love being involved with holiday preparations and it is important to take precautions during this busy time, especially in the kitchen.

To help your family enjoy the festivities safely, here are some tips from Cedar Falls Public Safety:

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove. Explain to your children that the stove is hot and also that it will remain hot for a period of time, even after it is turned off. Always keep kids 3 feet away from stoves.
• Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
• Keep the floor clear so you don't trip over kids, toys, pocketbooks or bags.
• 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 room with a lit candle.
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.

To help your little turkeys enjoy the holiday and avoid potential dangers, have activities that keep the kids out of the kitchen. Games, puzzles, and books can help provide needed distractions. Additionally, Thanksgiving decoration arts and crafts can be a great way for them to be included in the preparations, while staying clear of dangerous appliances. If your child enjoys helping make dinner, provide them with recipes that can be done outside the kitchen and always have an adult help with the task.

We hope you and your family have a safe and happy Thanksgiving holiday!