Before you fire that turkey up this Thanksgiving, be aware of the dangers that lurk with ol’ Tom Turkey.

It’s only the start of a 35-day holiday season, when there is an “uptick” in related stress and accidents, according to Key Biscayne Fire Chief Joe Fernandez.

“This time of the year, kind of like hurricane season, when they’re doing non-routine functions, things they don’t always do, that lead to things happening, like rushing to the store, looking for parking spots, you also might be dealing with emotional issues, there’s additional stress … it’s the nature of the times,” he said. “What should be the happiest times of the year, we over-stress ourselves, and we end up having more accidents and 911 activity.”

Fernandez spoke to Islander News this week about some safety concerns and how to protect oneself.

On cooking a turkey, Fernandez warns that when using a fryer, not to put too much grease in the canister and never drop a frozen turkey into such a heat source, which could likely create a bubbling or splash effect that can lead to blistering burns.

Extinguishing materials should be nearby, whether it’s a lid, removing the heat source, or using an ABC fire extinguisher.

“Water into a grease fire is not effective and can actually make it boil over,” Fernandez said. “Most holiday incidents revolve around kitchen safety, flammable materials and leaving things unwatched.”

He advises keeping children at least three feet away from heat sources and turning your pot handles inward so they can’t be displaced from the stove top.

Accidents using a fryer, he said, usually comes from those who don’t have much practice in using them.

Fernandez said you should take care with decorations as well.

“It’s important if you’re getting a natural Christmas tree to keep it well-watered, keep it three feet away from any heat sources, like fireplaces or candles and make sure to use UL-rated and tested lights,” Fernandez said. “With such a vast access to buying items from so many places, you might get non-UL-tested products.”

As far as extension cords, never overload the circuits.

“Know what’s rated for outdoor and what’s rated for indoor use,” he said. “Observe the manufacturer’s recommendations. Too many times, you’ll see so many things plugged into one (power strip).”

He also urged everyone to take a few minutes to see if any copper wire or metal is showing any insulation from last year’s strings of lights when they’re brought out for this season.

If you’re going to use a ladder, Fernandez also urges caution..

“Make sure someone is helping you, and make sure the ladders are set up properly,” he said. “Look for overhard power lines and tree issues. A lot of things we open ourselves up to with this.”

With candles, one recommendation is to use battery-operated flameless candles.

“Never leave a candle unattended and make sure it’s at least 12 inches away from anything that could catch fire,” Fernandez said.

Heating sources are always a big hazard if not looked after properly.

“Make sure they are properly maintained and cleaned out, make sure they have a screen, and be clean of ashes,” Fernandez said about using fireplaces. “More common to us are portable heaters. Never place them closer than three feet from blankets or curtains or whatever can catch fire.”

The holiday season is also a good time to verify smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.

Finally, Fernandez said, “Be cognizant of pets and kids” and how easy it is for them to be in harm’s way.

His best recommendation?

“If you’re going to be leaving, turn everything off.”

And have a safe holiday season.