Thanksgiving is an excellent opportunity to enjoy time with family and friends. However, cluttered countertops, multiple cooking stations, and commotion can lead to holiday fires. On Thanksgiving Day in 2023, 1,446 fires were reported to U.S. fire departments, 388% more than the typical daily average. Here are some things to keep in mind.
Understanding these common causes can help you take proactive steps to prevent fires; here are some practical tips to keep your holiday safe.
Removing grease and food buildup is an excellent way to prevent holiday fires. For example, wipe down surfaces before you begin cooking, and check for any leftover debris in the oven. If a fire does occur in your oven, turn it off and keep the door closed to contain the flames. If a fire occurs on your stovetop, quickly smother it with a lid rather than moving the pan.
Hosting a holiday gathering is more than just cooking. If you need to leave the kitchen, ask a responsible adult to stay in the kitchen while food is cooking, especially when using high-heat appliances like fryers or ovens. This extra vigilance can help prevent accidents from escalating into fires.
Never use a fryer in an enclosed space or on a wooden deck. Once an oil fire starts, it’s nearly impossible to put it out. Also, be sure your turkey is completely thawed out before lowering it into the hot oil to prevent dangerous splattering. Position the fryer on a flat, open surface away from buildings and flammable materials.
If you’re hosting your first large gathering, ensure you have functioning smoke alarms in your kitchen and nearby hallways. Test alarms ahead of the holiday and replace batteries if needed.
Set clear guidelines for your children about entering the kitchen, such as having them stay in a designated play area during meal prep. Think back to when you were a kid. Were you and your cousins running wildly through the house? Children can knock things over, creating more fire risk in your busy kitchen.
If you don’t have a fire extinguisher in your home, now may be an excellent time to purchase one. Keep it in an easily accessible spot in the kitchen, and make sure adults know how to use it. Learn how to select the right fire extinguisher for your home in this article.
While candles look nice on the coffee table and add ambiance to your living room, a passing child or wagging tail can easily tip them over. Place candles on stable, elevated surfaces away from edges and flammable items.
A regular three-prong (grounded outlet) is best for plugging in a toaster, crockpot, or skillet. Overloaded outlets or tangled cords can overheat and spark fires, so keep your kitchen setup simple and organized.
If a fire starts in your home, your priority is to ensure everyone gets out safely. Once that happens, call 911 immediately. Trying to handle a fire on your own can make matters worse and put lives at risk.
By taking a few simple precautions, you can ensure your holiday celebrations remain joyful and safe. Staying alert in the kitchen, keeping children and pets away from hazards, and preparing your home with the right safety tools all go a long way toward preventing fires. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to focus on making lasting memories with family and friends, knowing your home is protected.