Over 20 Ways to Safely Cook and Travel this Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and millions of people will soon take to the road and kitchen to share the holiday feast with loved ones.

Because Thanksgiving is a peak time for congested travel and home cooking fires, the American Red Cross asks everyone to follow the steps below to help stay safe this holiday. In addition, you can help protect yourself and your family from home firesthe nation's most frequent disasterby testing your smoke alarms and practicing your fire escape plan, using free resources from the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign at redcross.org/homefires.

"Sadly, each year, cooking fires tragically alter people's lives on Thanksgiving," said Harvey Johnson, senior vice president of Disaster Cycle Services for the American Red Cross. "We urge everyone to follow a few simple steps to safely enjoy the holiday."

COOKING SAFETY

1. Install a smoke alarm near your kitchen, on each level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas. Use the test button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once a year if your smoke alarm requires it.
2. Consider purchasing a fire extinguisher to keep in your kitchen. Contact your local fire department to take training on the proper use of extinguishers.
3. While cooking, don't wear loose clothing or sleeves that dangle.
4. If you are frying, grilling or broiling food, never leave it unattendedstay in the kitchen. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
5. If you're simmering, baking, roasting or broiling food, check it regularly.
6. Use a timer to remind yourself that the stove or oven is on.
7. Keep kids and pets away from the cooking area. Make them stay at least three feet away from the stove.
8. Keep anything that can catch firepot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, towels or curtainsaway from your stove, oven or any other appliance in the kitchen that generates heat.
9. Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.
10. Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving home to make sure all stoves, ovens, and small appliances are turned off.

TRAVEL SAFETY

Each year, millions of people drive to spend Thanksgiving with family and friendsmaking it one of the busiest times for road traffic. If you're planning to travel by car, prepare now for a safe visit.

1. Make sure your car is in good condition for a road trip.
2. Pack an emergency preparedness kit, supplies and a first aid kit in the trunk.
3. Share travel plans with a family member or friend.
4. Check the weather before departing and along your route. Plan for travel around any storms that may be coming.
5. Be well rested and alert.
6. Buckle up, slow down and don't drive impaired.
7. Follow the rules of the road and use caution in work zones.
8. Give your full attention to the road. Avoid distractions such as cell phones.
9. Make frequent stops. During long trips, rotate drivers. If you're too tired to drive, stop and get some rest.
10. If you have car trouble, pull off the road as far as possible.

FLU SAFETY

If public transportation is part of your travel plans, remember it's flu season. From luggage to seats, everything that you touch is likely touched by someone else. Follow these tips to help avoid the spread of germs.

1. Handle your own belongings.
2. Wash your hands often with soap and water.
3. Carry hand sanitizer and anti-bacterial wipes with you. You can use them to wash your hands or wipe down surfaces, such as armrests.
4. Bring your own pillows and blankets. They can act as a shield against the seat itself.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

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SOURCE American Red Cross

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