Seasonal Cooking Safety Tips from SERVPRO of Ozone Park

11/19/2024 (Permalink)

The holiday season is here, and that means more time in the kitchen creating festive meals and delicious treats. While cooking brings family and friends together, it’s also a leading cause of home fires. At SERVPRO of Ozone Park, we want you to enjoy a safe and stress-free holiday season. Follow these tips to keep your kitchen safe and your celebrations on track!

1. Stay Focused on Cooking

Unattended cooking is the number one cause of kitchen fires.

• Always stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling, or sautéing.
• Use a timer when baking or simmering dishes to remind you to check on them.
• Keep children and pets at least three feet away from hot stoves and ovens.

2. Use Caution with Cooking Oils

Hot grease can ignite quickly, especially when overheated.

• Heat oil slowly to the correct temperature.
• Keep a lid nearby to smother grease fires. Never use water to extinguish a grease fire—it can make the fire worse.
• Dispose of oil properly by letting it cool and placing it in a sealed container before discarding.

3. Keep Your Cooking Area Clear

Prevent accidental fires by maintaining a clean, organized workspace.

• Remove flammable items like dish towels, paper towels, and packaging from near the stove.
• Clean grease and food buildup from stovetops, ovens, and range hoods regularly.

4. Be Prepared for Emergencies

Even with precautions, accidents can happen. Be ready to act quickly:

• Fire Extinguisher: Keep a multipurpose fire extinguisher in your kitchen and ensure everyone in your household knows how to use it.
• Smoke Alarms: Test your smoke alarms before the holiday season to make sure they’re functioning properly.
• Know When to Call for Help: If a fire is out of control, evacuate immediately and call 911.

5. After Cooking: Safety Doesn’t End

Once your meal is served, take steps to avoid lingering risks.

• Turn off all appliances and ensure burners are cool before cleaning.
• Check to make sure candles, stovetops, and ovens are fully extinguished before leaving the kitchen.

SERVPRO of Ozone Park Is Here for You

Should an accident occur this season, SERVPRO of Ozone Park is ready to help. Our expert team specializes in fire damage restoration, including smoke and soot cleanup, odor removal, and structural repairs.

Available 24/7
If fire or smoke damage disrupts your holidays, We’ll work to restore your home quickly, so you can get back to celebrating with your loved ones.

Wishing You a Safe and Delicious Holiday Season
From our family at SERVPRO of Ozone Park to yours, have a wonderful and safe holiday season. Remember, safety starts in the kitchen—happy cooking!