As the holiday parties commence and you scramble to prepare meals and feed guests, your kitchen is going to be working overtime this month. With more cooking, baking and people coming in and out of the kitchen, it’s crucial to ensure your space is as safe as possible in order to avoid any unwanted accidents during the holiday.

Check out these 6 simple tips on how to

stay safe in the kitchen
 and keep your holidays happy!

1. Test Smoke Detectors

Before you start baking your holiday treats or signature dishes, make sure your

smoke detectors
 are working properly and that the batteries have been replaced. Not only will this keep you and your guests safe from a potential fire, but you’ll also avoid hearing that annoying beeping sound during your party!

2. Unplug Appliances

Even when not turned on, small appliances continue to draw electricity when plugged into an electrical outlet. It is best to unplug any small appliance like toasters, coffee pots, slow-cookers and air fryers when they are not being used to avoid any potential hazards as you multitask in the kitchen.

3. Dress the Part

When cooking, it’s best to wear close-fitting clothing that cannot easily get caught on handles. Use oven mitts if you are handling hot pots and pans. If you have long hair, be sure to keep it out of your way by tying it back in a ponytail when opening the oven or leaning over the stove top. Also try to avoid wearing loose jewelry, for extra precautions!

4. Be Mindful of Children

If children are included in your holidays, make sure to keep them away from the kitchen during cooking times. Hot stovetops and ovens, high-temperature foods, matches, lighters and candles are just a few of the potential dangers if not properly stored or managed – especially for children. These precautions should be extended to adults, too.

5. Invest in a Fire Extinguisher

Owning a fire extinguisher and keeping it close in your kitchen will prevent an unexpected kitchen fire from escalating too quickly. Store your fire extinguisher in a place that has easy access and let your family members know where it is located and inform them on the proper way to use it before the hustle and bustle of the holiday season commences.

6. Stay Clutter-Free

Be sure to

clean
 your cooking areas throughout the day, keeping them clear of food debris, utensils, dish towels and other materials that are easily flammable. A common mistake is also placing your cell phone on a working kitchen countertop; be sure to remove all technology from your area so no spilled liquids destroy your nice iPhone and damper your fun holiday plans.

So next time you are in the kitchen prepping for friends and family to gather around, implement these easy tips to keep your holiday festivities disaster-free!

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