The holidays are a fun, joyous time of family, friends, and hustle bustle. But as you whip up a masterpiece in the kitchen, it's important to be mindful of safety, especially at a stressful time when your thoughts may scatter. Below are a few safety tips from the American Red Cross.

- 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.

- Consider purchasing a fire extinguisher to keep in your kitchen. Contact your local fire department to take training on the proper use of extinguishers.

- While cooking, don't wear loose clothing or sleeves that dangle.

- If you are frying, grilling or broiling food, never leave it unattended—stay in the kitchen. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.

- If you're simmering, baking, roasting or broiling food, check it regularly.

- Use a timer to remind yourself that the stove or oven is on.

- Keep kids and pets away from the cooking area. Make them stay at least three feet away from the stove.

- Keep anything that can catch fire—pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, towels or curtains—away from your stove, oven or any other appliance in the kitchen that generates heat.

- Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.

- Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving home to make sure all stoves, ovens, and small appliances are turned off.

Source: American Red Cross

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