Freeze fresh meat, poultry or fish immediately if you can't use it within a few days. Place packages of raw meat, poultry or fish on a plate before refrigerating so their juices won't drip on other food. Raw juices often contain harmful bacteria. People with open cuts, sores, boils, vomiting or diarrhea should not handle food. Thaw food in the refrigerator, not on the counter.
Bacteria can grow in the outer layers of the food before the inside thaws.
Always marinate food in the refrigerator. Wash cutting boards and utensils in hot soapy water after use. Use plastic cutting boards rather than wooden ones where bacteria can hide in grooves. If it's in a shell, cook it well. Don't eat raw or partially cooked eggs or shellfish.