As Thanksgiving approaches, we’d like to pass on a few safety tips to help you get through the weeks ahead with little worry or incident. These tips have been compiled from the America Academy of Pediatrics, the National Safety Council, and the US Product Safety Commission.Food and Cooking
The holidays often mean preparing large meals for family and friends. Wash hands, utensils, sink, and anything else that has come in contact with raw poultry. Bacteria are often present in raw foods. Fully cook meats and poultry, and thoroughly wash raw vegetables and fruits.
Always thaw meat in the refrigerator, never on the countertop.
Keep in mind that a stuffed bird takes longer to cook. For questions concerning holiday turkey preparation and cooking call the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-800-535-4555.
Be sure to keep hot liquids and foods away from the edges of counters and tables, where they can be easily knocked over by a young child's exploring hands.
Wash your hands frequently, and make sure your children do the same. To know (and teach your children) how long to wash, humming one chorus of "Happy Birthday" gives adequate sanitation in most circumstances.
Never put a spoon used to taste food back into food without washing it.
Foods that require refrigeration should never be left at room temperature for more than two hours. Refrigerate or freeze leftovers in covered shallow containers (less than two inches deep) within two hours after cooking. Date the leftovers for future use.
Monitor your children's intake of holiday sweets. It's okay to let them indulge for a special occasion, but be sure to balance it out with healthier food choices the rest of the time.
Alcohol, Parties and Driving
Being a smart party host or guest should include being sensible about alcoholic drinks. More than half of all traffic fatalities are alcohol-related. Use designated drivers, people who do not drink, to drive other guests home after a holiday party.
Stress and the Holidays
The holiday season is one of the most stressful times of the year. You can't avoid stress completely, but you can give yourself some relief. Allow enough time to shop rather than hurry through stores and parking lots. Only plan to do a reasonable number of errands. When shopping, make several trips out to the car to drop off packages rather than trying to carry too many items. Take time out for yourself. Relax, read, or enjoy your favorite hobby at your own pace.
Happy Visiting
Clean up immediately after a holiday party. A toddler could rise early and choke on leftover food or come in contact with alcohol or tobacco.
Remember that the homes you visit may not be childproofed. Keep an eye out for danger spots.
Keep a laminated list with all of the important phone numbers you or a baby-sitter are likely to need in case of an emergency. Include your pediatrician and the poison control center. and the national Poison Help Line, 1-800-222-1222.
Ask your neighbor if he has a gun before sending your kids over to play. If the answer is yes, you need to make absolutely sure that all guns are stored unloaded and locked - ideally in a gun safe - with ammunition locked separately. Include the question along with other things you might normally discuss before sending your child to someone's house.
Traveling, visiting family members, getting presents, shopping, etc., can all increase your child's stress levels. Sticking to your child's usual routines, including sleep schedules and timing of naps, can help you and your child enjoy the holidays and reduce stress.
With a little planning and common sense, you can be sure to make your Turkey Time safe and fun. Happy Thanksgiving from the Alden Park Neighborhood Watch!
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