Spending quality time in the kitchen is a past time for many families. Teaching children how to make traditional meals and how to prepare family recipes is something all heritages have in common. Be extra cautious this holiday season while cooking with children in the kitchen.
Be Aware
Kitchens hold many potential hazards, such as sharp utensils, hot stove tops and ovens, heavy objects like canned goods or kitchen appliances, as well as toxic cleaning supplies. There are many opportunities for injuries while working in the kitchen, especially with children.
Common injuries and emergencies that happen on Thanksgiving include lacerations from kitchen knives, burns from cooking-related incidents, and kitchen fires. Be prepared by keeping all sharp objects out of reach and inaccessible to children. Cover hot stove burners and use the back burners as much as possible. Never allow kids in the kitchen unsupervised. If necessary, have a gate or barrier to keep children out of harms way.
Be Ready
Prepare your home for company before having family and friends over for the holidays. Clear hazards from all living areas and close doors to any rooms that guests shouldn’t enter. Unplug toasters, blenders, coffee makers, food processors, and other small appliances when not in use and store them out of the reach of children.
Check your first aid kit and ensure all commonly used supplies are available. Have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen in case of unexpected flames. In the event someone ingests a poisonous substance, call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222 immediately.
The Merdes Law Office has been helping Alaskans for more than 30 years. And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do.
