Thanksgiving is a favorite holiday, especially in New England! With the cooler temperatures, family gatherings and the first snowfall, what’s not to love? Oftentimes, families travel far and wide to spend this holiday with loved ones. With an increase of people in one space, the likelihood of accidents or injury also increases. Be sure to follow the below Thanksgiving safety tips so you can spend your holiday in the dining room, and not the procedure room!
Knife injuries
The ceremonial carving of the turkey is the culmination of a rigorous day spent in the kitchen chopping vegetables, peeling apples and mashing potatoes. Whether you are chopping, peeling, mashing or carving – make sure to do so away from your palms and fingers to prevent lacerations. Take time to ensure the surface you are working on is stable and utensils are adequately sharpened. It may be idealistic to have someone carving the turkey at the head of the dinner table, but it is safer to do so in the kitchen on a stable, clean, well-lit surface.
Hot plates
Hot gravy, deep-fried turkey and Grandma’s pumpkin pie on Thanksgiving Day are some of the best traditions. With lots of hustle and bustle in the kitchen, it’s easy to knock over the piping hot gravy, or bump into Granny as she pulls the pie out of the oven! Always use tongs and oven mitts when handling high-temperature items and be sure to place them in a safe place for cooling. Another tip is to avoid wearing loose clothing to prevent them from catching on fire. Make sure to turn boiling pot handles inwards so they are less easily knocked over.
Sports injuries
Although Thanksgiving is about relaxing at home, many families engage in physical activity throughout the day. Even if it’s all in good fun, backyard sports can put you at risk for sports injuries, such as sprains, strains and concussions. Play it safe by choosing flag football over full contact to make it safe for all ages of the family to participate. If your day is more sedentary, be sure not to overexert yourself picking up and putting down the big bird. From flag football to Turkey Trots – make sure to be prepared, know your limits and rest if you suffer from a sports injury.
Flu
With family and friends getting together, it’s easy for the flu virus to spread from one person to another. The number one way to prevent contracting the flu is to receive the flu vaccination. Other flu-fighting techniques include washing your hands and not sharing food or drinks. Although it may be hard, staying home for the holidays if you are feeling sick is what’s best for yourself and everyone else. Check out ClearChoiceMD Urgent Care’s Flu Fighting Tips on how to prevent, manage and recover from the flu!
Thanksgiving is the beginning of the holiday season, be sure you can enjoy it in its entirety by navigating in a safe manner by following our Thanksgiving safety tips!