With Pesach just around the corner, Crown Heights Hatzalah is reminding the community to take extra precautions to ensure a safe and healthy Yom Tov. From cleaning preparations to the Seder nights, being mindful of potential hazards can help prevent unnecessary emergencies.
Cleaning & Kashering Safely
Ventilation is essential during Pesach cleaning. Many cleaning products contain strong chemicals that can be hazardous if inhaled, so always ensure proper airflow when using them, and never mix different cleaning agents. When reaching for high places, avoid climbing on unstable furniture, as this can lead to dangerous falls. Use a sturdy step stool or ladder and have someone nearby to assist you. It’s also important to keep children away from cleaning products. Store them safely out of reach and always keep them in their original containers to prevent accidental ingestion.
When kashering with boiling water, use extreme caution to avoid burns. Protective gloves are recommended, and pouring should be done slowly to minimize splashing. Flammable items should always be kept far from open flames, and tools like blowtorches or heating elements should never be left unattended. When handling hot items, make sure to use long tongs, heat-resistant gloves, and other appropriate safety equipment.
Kitchen Safety
Cooking for Pesach often involves a bustling kitchen with multiple pots on the stove. To avoid burns and fires, keep pot handles turned inward and never leave food unattended while it’s cooking. Be especially cautious of steam burns—hot steam from pots or kettles can be very dangerous. Always open lids carefully and keep children at a safe distance from boiling liquids. Since many Pesach-specific appliances are used only once a year, check cords and plugs for wear or damage before plugging them in, and avoid overloading outlets. Always have a fire extinguisher nearby, and remember that oil fires cannot be extinguished with water.
Fire Safety
When searching for chometz, use caution with candles and keep them away from anything flammable. During biur chometz, exercise extreme care by burning only in a safe, designated area and keeping children at a distance. For Yom Tov candle lighting, place candles on stable, non-flammable surfaces and away from curtains or other items that can catch fire easily. Never leave candles unattended. Make sure smoke detectors are working properly on every floor of your home.
Matzah & Food Safety
Matzah can be a choking hazard, particularly for young children and the elderly. Encourage everyone to take small bites and chew thoroughly. With food allergies in mind, pay close attention when preparing meals for family and guests, as many popular Pesach treats contain nuts or other allergens.
Lastly, always be prepared for emergencies. Keep a fully charged phone nearby with Hatzalah’s number (718-230-1000) saved. If an emergency arises, do not hesitate to call Hatzalah immediately—even on Shabbos or Yom Tov.
Wishing the entire community a Kosher un Freilichen, healthy, and safe Pesach!
Crown Heights Hatzalah – Here When You Need Us
Thank you Hatzalah for sharing all these very important safety tips