Here are safe ways to prepare, serve and store your Thanksgiving feast and leftovers, according to a doctor. You’ll be thankful you did.

Mich. (WLUC) - Families are busy preparing for Thanksgiving dinner, and the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) wants you to remember food safety. MDARD Director Tim Boring says properly defrosting the turkey is the most important step.

Noshing on Thanksgiving leftovers is as much of an American tradition as a roast turkey dinner with all the sides. But it's important to enjoy your leftovers safely and avoid foodborne illness. Not to mention Thanksgiving leftovers tend to dry out and lose their oomph after several days in the fridge.