Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and food. But it’s also a time when house fires increase. According to the National Fire Protection Association, Thanksgiving Day is the peak day for home cooking fires. You can take steps to keep your friends and family safe this holiday season. Here are a few tips for fire safety at Thanksgiving.
Fire Safety While Cooking for Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving revolves around cooking, so it’s no surprise that many kitchen fires occur during this holiday. Always have an adult in the kitchen while food is prepared, and never leave pots and pans unattended on the stovetop. If you’re deep frying a turkey, do so outside and away from flammable materials like trees and shrubbery. Never throw water on a grease fire; smother the flames by putting a lid on the pan or using a fire extinguisher.
Using the Fireplace Safely
If your home has a fireplace, use it to warm your living spaces and add ambiance on Thanksgiving Day. Before you light the season’s first fire, have your chimney cleaned and inspected by a professional. You’ll prevent chimney fires by removing buildups of soot and creosote. When you’re ready to build a fire, use only dry hardwood. Freshly cut or damp wood produces more smoke and doesn’t burn as hot, contributing to creosote buildup. Keep flammable materials at least three feet away from the fireplace. That includes furniture, rugs, draperies, and holiday decorations.
Fire Safety at Thanksgiving: Being Safe with Candles
Candles create a warm and inviting ambiance at holiday gatherings but can be a significant fire hazard. Always burn candles in sturdy holders that won’t tip over. Place the candle holder away from flammable materials, including curtains, tablecloths, napkins, and decorations. Never leave burning candles unattended. Extinguish them before you leave the room or go to bed for the evening.
Test the Smoke Detectors
Smoke detectors help keep you and your family safe from fire, but only if they function correctly. Test your detectors monthly, and replace their batteries at least once yearly (or more often if necessary). Install detectors on every level of your home, including the basement and inside each bedroom. That way, everyone in the family will hear an alarm if a fire breaks out.
Using a Turkey Fryer Safely
Deep-fried turkeys have become increasingly popular recently, but the fryer can be extremely dangerous if used incorrectly. If you’re planning to fry your turkey this year, do it outside (preferably on concrete), away from flammable materials like decks or trees. Never leave the fryer unattended. The oil can quickly overheat and catch fire, so someone must be nearby to monitor it.
Thanksgiving is a time for family fun. Following these simple safety tips, you help ensure your holiday gathering is enjoyable and safe for everyone involved. From cooking in the kitchen to being mindful of candles and open flames, a little preparation goes a long way toward preventing house fires this Thanksgiving season.
HomeSpec offers home inspection services to customers in North Mississippi and Southwest Tennessee. Contact us to schedule an appointment.