As the holiday season approaches, many of us are planning family gatherings and constructing the menu for our perfect holiday meal. However, what many of us may not realize is that cooking a big holiday meal can actually be dangerous if you don’t take the proper precautions.

Fires, burns, and cuts are just a few of the hazards of working in the kitchen this holiday season, making it important that you prepare accordingly. Read on to learn some tips to keep you and your family safe in the kitchen over the holidays and find out when you should consult a personal injury lawyer.

Work on Clean Surfaces

One of the first things you should do to stay safe during the holiday season is to make sure that your cooking and storing your food on clean surfaces. Bacteria like salmonella and e. coli can easily build-up on the counters in your kitchen, stopping your holiday celebration in its tracks.

Before you start cooking, make sure to clean your kitchen surfaces as thoroughly as possible. Also, store your sensitive food items in a refrigerator or freezer before you start cooking.

Keeping your kitchen clean will help you avoid food poisoning and a disastrous end to your holiday gathering.

Watch Out for Spills

Some of the most common kitchen accidents involve slipping and falling. In a hectic holiday kitchen, it’s very easy for you to miss spills on the floor that can result in a dangerous fall. While working in the kitchen this holiday season, make sure to tread carefully and clean up any spills as soon as you notice them.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to wear shoes with a good grip, as they can help keep you upright on the sometimes slick kitchen flooring.

Be Ready for Cuts and Burns

Some hazards are par for the course when it comes to preparing holiday meals. Over the course of your holiday cooking, you’ll be constantly exposed to the risk of burns and cuts, making it important that you take the precautions necessary to lower your risk of injury.

First, make sure that all your knives are safely stored until you’re ready to use them. This will prevent any accidental cuts that may require a trip to the ER.

Secondly, handle all of your hot materials with care. Pick up your pots and pans with a hot pad or another protective tool so that your hands stay burn free.

Dress for Success

For any occasion, it’s important that you have the right outfit, which is particularly true for cooking a holiday meal. Whenever you’re in the kitchen this holiday season, avoid wearing loose clothing, as they can be a serious fire risk. If you dress for safety, you’ll be sure to make it through the holiday season healthy and happy.

Talk with a Personal Injury Lawyer

Despite your best efforts, it’s still possible to be hurt while preparing your holiday meal, mostly due to the negligence of another person. If you’ve suffered a holiday cooking related injury, you need to consult a personal injury lawyer from the Parrish DeVaughn Law Firm.

We can advise you about your legal options after a holiday injury and help you get the settlement you deserve. Call to schedule a consultation with us today!