BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- Another holiday is approaching, and it’s better to stay safe than sorry this Thanksgiving by making good choices.
Thanksgiving is a great time to fellowship with distant family and friends over football, drinks, and a hot meal. It can lead to some great, long-lasting memories but also some terrible, long-lasting scars if you aren’t careful. These safety tips can help you bypass the risk, make it to your destination in one piece, and, of course, enjoy some fried turkey.
When frying a turkey
Do:
- Choose a safe and open outdoor area
- Use oil with a high smoking point
- Measure the exact amount of oil that is needed to prepare your dish
- Wear protective mitts or gloves
Don’t:
- Leave the fryer unattended
- Submerge a frozen turkey
- Let children or pets near the fryer
- Let the oil exceed 350° Fahrenheit
When operating a vehicle
Do:
- Take breaks and rotate drivers
- Gas up before hitting the road
- Keep an emergency kit in the car that contains first aid supplies, water, blankets, and non-perishable snacks
- Check your vehicle thoroughly before driving
Don’t:
- Drive while intoxicated
- Drive while drowsy
- Drive distracted
- Ignore the weather forecasts
Other safe practices this week include keeping a fire extinguisher nearby, distancing your fryer away from flammable objects, children, and pets, staying close to your cooking area when actively preparing dishes, avoid cooking in outside shelters such as garages or carports. Overall, be sure to use your best judgment this week before driving or preparing food items so that you and your family can have a great and safe Thanksgiving.
For more best practices this Thanksgiving, visit the NFPA website at NFPA.org.