KETTERING — The holidays are a time for gathering together with family and loved ones, feasting on lots of food, and having fun. Kettering Health Network ER physicians urge you to be careful during the holidays to avoid injuries and life-threatening illnesses.

Food preparation

To avoid illness-causing bacteria:

• Wash your hands before and after handling uncooked meat.

• Thaw your turkey in the refrigerator or the microwave. Do not thaw at room temperature.

• Use a food thermometer to ensure that the turkey has completely cooked; the temperature inside the turkey should be at least 165 degrees.

• Wash utensils, counters, sinks and anything that has come in contact with uncooked meat.

• Use knives carefully – one of the most common injuries during the holiday season is knife cuts.

• Fry a turkey away from the house and anything flammable.

Prevent fires and burns

• Wear short sleeves when cooking.

• Stay in the kitchen while food is cooking.

• Turn the handles of pots and pan inward.

• Make sure candles are extinguished before leaving the house or going to bed.

Eating

• Eat in moderation and slowly.

• Chew thoroughly.

• Don’t talk while eating.

Holiday activities

Many families enjoy a game of football or other activity when gathering for the holidays. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a professional athlete, you can get hurt playing any type of sport—injuries include sprains, fractures and chest pains from over-exertion. If you have a chronic condition or are not used to routine exercise, take it easy.

Decorating

• Keep your tree away from fireplaces and lighted candles.

• Don’t place breakable ornaments on lower branches where small children and pets can get at them.

• Use a proper ladder when trying to reach high places to help prevent falls.