Before and After Cooking:
• Be sure that there is a fire extinguisher easily accessible in your kitchen. Make sure everyone in your home knows where the fire extinguisher is and how to use it.
• Don’t let grease build on range tops, ovens or toaster ovens. Grease is a fire hazard, and remember, water should never be used to extinguish a grease fire.
• Keep flammable items, such as paper towels, plastic bags and holiday decorations, at least three feet away from range tops.
• Carefully read and follow the operating instructions of your kitchen appliances before using them.
• Never plug kitchen appliances in to extension cords. This could overload the outlets and cause a fire.
• Plug all appliances directly into outlets when you are using them, and be sure to unplug them when you’re finished. Not only is unplugging appliances safer, but it also saves energy.

While Cooking:
• Never use cooking appliances near the sink or any other wet areas.
• When you are cooking on your range top, turn pot handles toward the back of the range to prevent children from reaching up and pulling down a hot pot or pan.
• Always stay in the kitchen when you are cooking anything on the stove or in the oven. If you have to leave the kitchen, turn these appliances off while you are gone.

Take extra precautions if you’re planning a more elaborate meal, like a fried turkey. Never try to use a turkey fryer indoors, even if you think it may be too cold to cook outside. These devices are serious fire hazards. Read the extensive safety instructions that come with turkey fryers very carefully.

Follow these simple cooking safety tips and enjoy the meals you share with your family and friends this holiday season.