Happy holidays ! This time of year it is important to take extra safety precautions , so here are some holiday security tips. This means taking the time and wherewithal with your security , cooking , and family . Being a little more conscientious of the time of year and your surroundings will lead to a safer holiday. The days are longer and darker—be prepared!

1. Turn the heat off . When there are flames, people panic. With that said, leave the pot where it is—we cannot afford to spill burning oil as this would only cause the fire to spread more rapidly.
2. Cover the pot with the metal lid . This is fire 101. Take away oxygen and the fire cannot breath! Please note metal is necessary as glass cannot withstand the heat and pressure.
3. Ever see the scene in Gone in Sixty Seconds where Nicholas Cage uses baking powder to put out a grease fire —it works! This is not full proof as it only works for small fires.
4. Pick up your Class ABC Dry Chemical Fire Extinguisher and spray the base of the fire. This is a last resort as fire extinguishers have contaminants. Nevertheless, a contaminated kitchen is better than no kitchen!
5. Get to safety and call the Fire Department . Leave it to the professionals—kitchens can be replaced, you can’t.