Crown Heights Hatzalah Shares Pesach Safety Tips

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.

Here are some important safety tips to keep in mind.

Cleaning & Kashering Safely

• Ventilation is Key: Many Pesach cleaning products contain strong chemicals that can be hazardous if inhaled. Ensure proper ventilation when using cleaning agents and avoid mixing chemicals.
• Use Caution When Reaching High Places: Climbing on unstable chairs or furniture to reach high shelves can lead to serious falls. Use a sturdy step stool or ladder, and have someone assist you.
• Keep Children Away from Cleaning Supplies: Store cleaning products out of reach of children and always keep them in their original containers to avoid accidental ingestion.
• When kashering with boiling water, be extremely cautious to avoid burns. Use protective gloves and pour slowly to prevent splashing.

• Keep flammable objects away from open flames and never leave a blowtorch or heating element unattended.
• Use the Right Tools – Always use long tongs, heat-resistant gloves, and proper safety equipment when handling hot items.

Kitchen Safety

• Beware of Burns and Fires: Cooking for Pesach often involves multiple pots on the stove at once. Keep pot handles turned inward, and never leave cooking food unattended.
• Watch Out for Steam Burns: Hot steam from pots or kettles can cause serious burns. Open lids carefully and keep children away from boiling liquids.
• Use Appliances Safely: Many Pesach appliances are used only once a year. Inspect cords and plugs for damage before use, and never overload electrical outlets.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby. Oil fires cannot be extinguished with water.

Fire Safety:

• Use caution when searching for chometz, keep the candle away from flammable materials.
• Biur Chometz: Exercise extreme caution when burning chometz. Keep children at a safe distance, and only burn in a designated safe area away from any fire hazards.
• Yom Tov Candle Safety: Place candles on sturdy, non-flammable surfaces away from curtains and other flammable objects. Never leave candles unattended.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby. Oil fires cannot be extinguished with water.
• Make sure you have working smoke detectors on every floor.

Matzah & Food Safety

• Prevent Choking Hazards: Matzah can be a choking hazard, especially for young children and the elderly. Encourage small bites and thorough chewing.
• Allergy Awareness: Be mindful of nut allergies and other food sensitivities when preparing meals for family and guests. Many regular Pesach treats have nuts in them.

Be Prepared for Emergencies – Keep a fully charged phone with Hatzalah’s number (718-230-1000) saved. In case of an emergency, 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