11/24/2025
Gobble, gobble, gobble 🦃 Do you hear that?
It’s Thanksgiving week, and it’s never too early to be thinking about cooking safely! As our residents and team members prep for the big day, here are some tips to have a safe cooking experience this year.
🥕Before Cooking or Hosting: Report kitchen issues to the office or submit a work order. Keep counter tops clutter-free and items from heat sources. Clean the base of the oven prior to cooking. Never wrap drip pans in foil. Check smoke alarms regularly. Locate a fire extinguisher. Deep-frying turkey is never allowed at any SPR property.
🌽 While Cooking: Keep anything flammable from the stovetop. Never leave cooking food unattended. Use a timer to remind you of cooking items. Turn off the stove if you leave. Avoid cooking if sleepy or intoxicated. Keep children from hot foods and liquids. Be sure electric cords are not dangling off counters or creating a trip hazard.
🦃 In Case of a Fire: For small grease fires, smother flames by sliding a lid over the pan and turning off the burner. Keep the pan covered until it cools completely. If a fire starts in the oven, turn off the heat and keep the door closed. If you’re unsure about handling a fire, leave the home immediately. Close the door behind you to contain the fire. Call 911 from a safe location.
🥧 After Cooking: Only small food scraps should be placed in the garbage disposal. No bones, peels, or other hard objects. All large food materials should be scraped into the compost or garbage before placing dishes in the sink or dishwasher. Do not dump grease down the drain. Wait until it cools to dispose in the trash.
We hope everyone has a safe, and Happy Thanksgiving.
(Image description: Photo of a Thanksgiving meal including turkey, vegetables, and a stew sitting on a wooden table with text saying, “Thanksgiving Cooking Safety”.)