As we settle into the chilly days of November here in Utah, many of us are spending more time indoors, often around a warm meal or a comforting drink. With Thanksgiving on the horizon, it's a perfect time to remind everyone of some essential cooking safety tips. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or just a cozy dinner, taking precautions can help you enjoy the season safely. Here are a few cooking safety guidelines to keep in mind: 1. Stay in the Kitchen: Always stay near the stove when frying or cooking with oil or grease, as these are high-risk times for fires. 2. Avoid Cooking When Tired: It’s tempting to get things started early or cook late, but cooking when you’re sleepy or distracted can be dangerous. 3. Handle Pan Fires Carefully: If a pan catches fire on the stovetop, don’t panic. Carefully place a lid over the pan to smother the flames, turn off the heat, and let it cool completely. 4. Remove Flammable Items: Keep items that can burn, like dish towels or packaging, well away from the stove. 5. Establish a Kid-Free Zone: To keep children safe, set a three-foot zone around the stove where little ones aren’t allowed. 6. Know When to Evacuate: If a fire starts and you’re unable to control it, get everyone out of the home immediately and call 911 for assistance. Salt Lake City firefighters are always here and ready to help in emergencies, but our priority is keeping you and your family safe at home. We want your holiday gatherings to be memorable for all the right reasons. Let’s keep this season joyous and safe by taking a few simple precautions.
National Preparedness Month
As winter approaches, it's time to prepare for the colder months and ensure the safety and well-being of our community. Winter in Utah brings its unique challenges, from heavy snowfall to icy roads and potential power outages. At Salt Lake City Emergency Management, we're committed to helping you stay safe and prepared. Here are some essential tips to get you ready for the winter season.
1. Winterize Your Home
- Prevent your pipes from freezing by insulating them, especially those in unheated areas like basements and garages.
- Have your heating system serviced by a professional to ensure it’s working efficiently. Don’t forget to clean or replace filters regularly.
- Use weather stripping and caulk to seal gaps around windows and doors to keep the cold air out and the warm air in.
- Make sure you have a sufficient supply of firewood, blankets, and warm clothing.
2. Emergency Kit Preparation
- Your emergency kit should include items like a snow shovel, ice scraper, rock salt, and sand for traction. Add warm clothing, blankets, and a supply of non-perishable food and water.
- Keep flashlights, batteries, and a battery-powered radio on hand. Consider investing in a generator for backup power, but ensure it’s used safely outdoors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
3. Vehicle Readiness
- Equip your car with an emergency kit that includes a blanket, extra warm clothing, a first-aid kit, water, non-perishable snacks, a flashlight, and batteries.
- Ensure your vehicle is winter-ready with antifreeze, a full tank of gas, and good tire tread. Consider switching to winter tires for better traction on icy roads.
- Always drive with caution in winter conditions. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles, reduce speed, and avoid sudden braking.
4. Stay Informed
Sign up for weather alerts and stay informed about upcoming storms. The National Weather Service provides timely updates on winter weather conditions.
5. Community Preparedness
Check on elderly neighbors or those with mobility issues. Offer assistance with snow shoveling or running errands.
By taking these steps, you can ensure that you and your family are ready for whatever winter throws your way. Remember, preparedness is a community effort, and together, we can weather the storm. Follow @BeReadySLC on major social media platforms for more.
