Some of the best parts of Christmas are the lights, decorations, and the smells coming from the kitchen.
Unfortunately, these are also two of the most dangerous aspects of the season as they can cause fires.
Whitney Burk, the Public Educator for Chatham-Kent Fire and Emergency Services, says you should not leave things unattended on the stove, but if you do leave the room, take an oven mitt or dish towel with you to remind you.
“Obviously we prefer that you stay in the kitchen, but we’re realistic. We understand that this time of year, you probably have family over that you haven’t seen in a while and we’re all trying to multi-task. But having that reminder often reminds people that they have to check on the food that’s cooking in the kitchen,” says Burk.
If a pot does catch fire and it’s safe to do so, carefully slide a tight-fitting lid over the pot to smother the flames and then turn off the heat.