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Seasons Greetings from your friends at Lee County Extension

IN THIS ISSUE:

• Home for the Holidays
• Cattle Market News
• Forestry News
• November/December County Events Calendar
• Lee County Extension Service Links & Contact Information

Home for the Holidays

Home for the Holidays...a familiar and frequently used sentiment, originally encapsulating the thoughts of those separated by circumstances and pining to be with loved ones. Oh, how what should be the happiest of times, could take a turn for the worse right at the holiday season! What if the absence of someone from celebrations is preventable? Here are a few home safety tips to help avoid the "holiday blues." 

Keep your kitchen a happy place. Many gravitate to the kitchen during special occasions. Be sure to clean up spills immediately to avoid slippery situations. This will also help prevent cross contamination. Everyone wants a good meal (and nothing more).

Thaw that turkey! Whether you are roasting or deep frying your turkey, be sure to completely thaw your turkey in the refrigerator. If you are opting to fry your turkey, here are some safety precautions.

• Setup your fryer outside on a safe stable surface away from flammable materials and have a fire extinguisher (for grease fires) on hand.
• Dry your thawed turkey completely.
• Follow manufacturer's instructions for your fryer to determine how much oil you need to cook your turkey. Do not overfill.
• Be sure your heat source is of and there is no flame when putting your turkey into the pot. This will prevent flames from splashed or overflowing oil.

For those climbing to new heights this season by trimming your tree or your house, be sure to follow these safety recommendations.

• Ask for help. It is best to have another person spot you while using a ladder. Use a sturdy ladder and wear good shoes for when you are decorating.
• Keep cords neatly coiled and out of walkways to prevent falls. Also use surge protectors and resist the urge to put too many plugs into one outlet. This will help reduce the risk of electrical shorts or fires.
• Be sure to water your live Christmas tree. Dry trees are a fire hazard.

Most of all...rest and don't over do it. Slow down. Enjoy your holiday season and the ones around you.

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