SAFETY
As we approach the holiday of Pesach, please keep in mind the fire safety pointers below. Particularly on Shabbat and Yom Tov, we need to be as conscious as possible of our own safety and the safety of our family and neighbors. Accordingly, we are sending you this fire safety reminder, as we have done in past years before the Chagim.
Bedikat Chametz
While the custom is to use a candle for Bedikat Chametz (searching for chametz the night before Pesach), in any areas where it is even remotely dangerous to do so (such as closets, near flammable furniture, etc.), a flashlight must be used instead.
Working Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
As we clean our homes for Pesach and carefully go from room to room making sure all is in order, this is a perfect time to ensure that appropriate alarms are installed in the proper locations with fresh batteries.
Safety Certifications
Please ensure that the electrical appliances we use, especially over Shabbat and Yom Tov, are properly certified for safety. Just as we all ensure that the food we eat is properly certified, we need to to ensure that electric kettles, hot plates and other electrical applianes have passed the “UL” (Underwriters Laboratories) inspection.
Hot Plates
Please note that, in many instances, hot plates can be used with heavy-duty time switches to ensure that they do not need to stay on for an entire Shabbat. If you have any questions or concerns, please consult the Rabbi.
Candles
Shabbat and Yom Tov candles are also a potential source of danger. Place candles on a sturdy heat-resistant surface, away from flammable materials, including walls, curtains, cabinets, wooden and plastic tables, tablecloths, etc. Keep surfaces and surrounding areas clear of burnt matches and other debris. Never leave candles unattended or go to sleep while they are burning. Light the candles out of children’s reach and in a place where they cannot be knocked over. Use extra caution when lighting 24-hour yahrtzeit candles, and keep them on a heat-resistant surface, away from flammable materials.
Cooking Appliances
Cooking appliances can also be dangerous. Set appliances back on the counter to avoid accidental burns and spills. Designate ovens, stoves and heat-containing appliances as a “NO GO ZONE” for children. Keep hands, hair, and sleeves away from open flames. If using a blech, position it so that heat can escape from all sides without heating walls, cabinets, and counters. Never cover oven vents with aluminum foil. Keep pot handles turned inward and away from the edge of the stove. Never move pots of boiling hot liquids while uncovered. Use extra caution when carrying hot food around children. Treat burns immediately by cooling with cool water and calling 911. Never put water on a grease fire. Use a fire extinguisher and call 911.
Please see the following resources for more information. May the Almighty keep us all safe.
- http://www.jewishfireprevention.org/
- http://www.jcrcny.org/what-we-do/security emergency preparedness/blog/