Home Safety Tips for Thanksgiving

Turkey? Check! Sweet potatoes? Check! Fire extinguisher? Wait, what? As you plan your Thanksgiving dinner menu, don’t forget to prioritize safety. Whether you’re cooking up a traditional feast for a crowd or simply reheating leftovers, taking steps to prevent accidents is essential.

According to the National Fire Protection Association(NFPA), Thanksgiving is the top day for home cooking fires, with nearly three times more incidents compared to any other day. To help ensure your holiday is safe and enjoyable, we’ve put together some essential Thanksgiving safety tips to keep in mind.

Common Causes of Kitchen Fires

With the increased risk of fires on Thanksgiving, it’s essential to understand the common causes of kitchen fires and how to prevent them:

1. High cooking temperatures:  Cooking on high heat might seem like a time-saver, but it can quickly lead to fires. Always stick to the recommended temperatures and avoid cranking up the heat to speed things along.
2. Cooking while distracted: Thanksgiving is filled with distractions, from chatting with loved ones to watching the big game. However, staying focused while cooking is crucial to avoid accidents and injuries.
3. Using excess oil or butter: Using too much fat or butter in your dishes can lead to grease fires. Stick to the recipe and avoid overfilling pans with these ingredients to prevent dangerous flare-ups.
4. Appliance malfunctions:  Even newer appliances, like turkey fryers, can pose risks if not properly maintained. Regularly inspect your kitchen tools for any issues to ensure they’re in safe working order.

Thanksgiving Safety: Fire Prevention Tips

Now that we know what can cause a house fire, it’s important to prioritize safety in the kitchen. Below are a few tips to help ensure your turkey preparation and Thanksgiving celebration stay fire-free:

• Stay in the kitchen: Always remain present while frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you need to step away, turn off the stove to avoid accidents.
• Avoid cooking while impaired: Never use the stove if you’re drowsy or have consumed alcohol, as this can lead to mistakes or dangerous situations.
• Use a timer: Keep a timer handy to monitor your food, preventing overcooking or undercooking. Remember, undercooked turkey can cause foodborne illnesses.
• Be prepared for grease fires: Keep a lid nearby to smother small grease fires. Slide the lid over the pan, turn off the heat, and leave covered until it cools completely. Never pour water on a grease fire.

• Dress safely: Avoid wearing loose clothing while cooking, as it can catch fire. Long hair should be tied back to prevent accidents.
• Child and pet safety: Keep small children and pets at least three feet away from the stove to prevent burns from steam, splashes, or hot surfaces.
• Use battery-operated candles: Use flameless candles to reduce fire risks during your celebration.
• Check your smoke alarms: Ensure all smoke alarms are functional and consider adding extra units near the kitchen for quicker fire detection.
• Keep a fire extinguisher handy: Have a fire extinguisher nearby for small grease fires and learn how to use it in advance. 

Thanksgiving Food Cooking Safety Tips 

Of course, we can’t forget some essential food tips for the Thanksgiving chef in your home! Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, keep these pointers in mind:

• Start with clean hands: Always wash your hands thoroughly when handling raw poultry. Make sure dishwater is at least 120°F to effectively clean utensils and dishes.
• Avoid cross-contamination: Keep raw meat, poultry, and seafood separate from other foods. Use dedicated cutting boards for each type of food to prevent the spread of bacteria. Avoid thawing frozen meat in the microwave, as uneven heating can encourage bacterial growth.

• Cook to safe temperatures: Use a food thermometer to ensure all poultry reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Don’t rely on the color of the meat to judge doneness—it’s not always accurate.
• Precook stuffing ingredients: If using raw meat, poultry, or shellfish in stuffing, precook them to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. Ensure the stuffing reaches an internal temperature of 165°F as well.
• Store leftovers properly: Use airtight containers to keep leftovers fresh and prevent bacteria. Refrigerate leftovers within two hours of serving to minimize bacterial growth.

We want your Thanksgiving Day to be as wonderful as possible. By paying close attention to potential kitchen fire hazards and practicing proper food safety, you can ensure your holiday meal is memorable for all the right reasons!

For Professional Fire Damage Restoration, Contact PuroClean

While we all hope for a smooth Thanksgiving, unexpected events, like a fire, can sometimes disrupt our plans. Disasters often strike when we least expect them, and if you experience a fire, immediate cleanup and restoration services are essential. For professional smoke remediation and fire damage repair, contact us, your local PuroClean of Covington.