Nothing spoils a beautiful Thanksgiving dinner like a trip to the hospital, which is why this holiday weekend, the Food Safety Network reminds residents to practice proper food preparation.

Sarah Wilson, the Manager of the Information Centre at the Food Safety Network, says it's important to contain juices from the turkey and to wash hands and surfaces the turkey touches. Wilson says a properly cooked turkey should measure 77 degrees Celcius or 170 degrees fahrenheit. Wilson says leftovers should be put in the fridge immediately and not left at room temperature for a total of two hours. She also recommends that stuffing be cooked separately.