Thanksgiving is right around the corner and it’s a time for family fun, good food and maybe a Detroit Lions win? Don’t ruin a great day with a Thanksgiving mishap. Use these tips to help your day run smoothly:

Kitchen Safety

• While you’re prepping the house for company, don’t forget to start thawing the turkey! For every 4-5 lbs of turkey, it takes 24 hours to thaw.
  4 – 12 lbs. 1-3 days
  12 -16 lbs. 3-4 days
  16 -20 lbs. 4-5 days
  20-24 lbs. 5 – 6 days
• Find detailed thawing, cooling, and cleaning tips here.
• Check food in the kitchen frequently by staying at home or designating someone to watch the oven.
• Make sure your first aid kit is up-to-date and ready just in case!

Fire Prevention

• Never walk away from a turkey fryer.
• Do not try to put out a grease fire with water!
• Avoid wearing loose fitting clothing around an open flame.
• Replace small extinguishers every 4-5 years, and recharge extinguishers yearly with inspections.
• When in doubt, call 9-1-1. Don’t try to fight a fire that could leave you trapped.

Food Safety

• Make sure food meets the minimum internal cooking temperature.
• Clean all utensils, counters, and hands to avoid contamination.
• Keep food separated by using different cutting boards, bagging different meats in the refrigerator, and keeping items separated while grocery shopping.
• If you are using a slow cooker, follow USDA guidelines to ensure the contents are cooked completely.
• Learn more about about storing and freezing leftovers to keep your food at it’s best for eating later.
• If you have a question regarding food safety, storage or nutrition, the Oakland County Public Health Division and MSU Extension program is here to help!

Animals & Children

• If the kids are helping with preparation, make sure they are in sight at all time.
• Don’t let children put their faces or hands near stove tops. Splashes and open flames can cause harm. Use these tips in case of minor burns.
• Make sure all pot handles are turned inward to avoid little hands grabbing what they shouldn’t
• Keep knives and other sharp utensils, like apple cutters, out of reach of children.
• Keeping the floor clear of toys, animals, bags or children, will prevent tripping and spilling.
• Do not allow cords to dangle off the counter where children or animals can get them. Also do not string electrical cords across walkways.
• While you love your guests, your animals may not. If they are antsy or uncomfortable around company, put them in a room with their favorite toy or treat to keep them distracted.
• Pets can be masters of begging, but don’t give in during the Holidays! Foods such as: Avocado, onion, tomato, and grapes can be toxic to their health.
• You know your pet better than anyone, so avoid sharing leftovers if their stomach is not strong enough for greasy turkey skin or decadent treats they aren’t used to.

Being prepared and aware of these safety tips will help ensure a happy, healthy, and safe Thanksgiving for all. Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

Visit the Oakland County website for more information. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram & Pinterest for more ways to stay safe in Oakland County!