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Thanksgiving and Black Friday Safety Tips!
Let’s Talk Turkey – The Safe Way!
By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna
November 21, 2018 (San Diego) - Thanksgiving signifies the beginning of the holiday season and many of us will be spending more time in the kitchen preparing for the holidays.
Thanksgiving Day is the leading day for home cooking fires, with three times as many occurring on Thanksgiving as any other day of the year.
Let’s learn and share some facts about cooking fire safety:
- Be careful wearing loose clothing around open flames on the stove
- Use a timer and use “post it’s” to remind yourself of cooking times in the oven
- Be careful using candles at the dinner table (especially if toddlers are present)
- Use oven and mitts when handling hot pots and pans
- Do not cool hot pans with water if grease is in them
- Have a fire extinguisher near-by and know how to use it.
- Stay alert. If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the stove or stove top.
- Is that smoke detector properly working?
If you have a cooking fire…
1. Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
2. Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number from outside the home.
3. If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear path out of the home, and that someone has called the fire department.
4. Keep a lid nearby when cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stove top. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
5. For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.
When Black Friday Comes!
Black Friday is the day after Thanksgiving when holiday gift buying begins. Sales offering big discounts lure customers in to stores, often beginning in the early hours of the morning. “Unfortunately, Black Friday (and most major shopping days) is a day when shoppers may become the victim of crimes and injuries.”
- People should be alert and aware of people and surroundings around them, and their vehicles. Situational Awareness at all times!
- Park in a location that is closest to the store or mall if shopping when it is dark out.
- Be careful of other motorist as they may be distracted.
- Park near where there is lighting.
- Purses should be worn in a way that it is close to the body and difficult to snatch.
- If carrying a wallet, it should be kept in the front pocket or the inside pocket of a coat or jacket.
- Carrying too many bags may also prove dangerous in many ways. If possible, leave children at home during Black Friday.
- The crowds of people can easily overwhelm a child who may be hurt or become lost. If you must bring a child, it is important to hold onto small children to avoid separation.
- Know where fire/emergency exits are in stores, restaurants and malls.
- If you’re sick, do us “all” a favor and stay home! Bring hand sanitizers to help combat germs.
- Put away the cell phone and be cognizant and courteous of others.
- Most importantly, be patient!
Now that’s a bargain!
*Note: The information in this article was compiled from various sources. These suggestions are not a complete list of every preventative or loss control measure. The information is not intended to replace additional safety manuals or the advice of another qualified professional(s). We make no guarantee of results from use of this information. We assume no liability in connection with the information nor the suggestions made.
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