One of the most glorious things about Thanksgiving Day is walking into a house full of delicious smells – warm rolls, yummy pie, juicy turkey. But how often do these delightful aromas evolve into the smell of smoke? According to the U.S. Fire Administration, each year between 2014 and 2016, an estimated 2,400 residential building fires were reported on Thanksgiving Day and caused an estimated 5 deaths, 25 injuries and $19 million in property loss. With all those yummy dishes cooking, the fire risk is significant on Turkey Day. Here’s what you can do to promote Thanksgiving fire safety in your home.
Thanksgiving Fire Safety Tips
#1 Dress smart.
Although many of us love wearing loose sweaters and bulky scarves this time of year, those aren’t the right fashion choices if you’ll be the one doing the cooking. Loose, baggy clothing is far more likely to catch on fire. Instead, wear something that won’t accidentally get caught on a hot pot handle or ignite as you lean over the stove.
#2 Equip your home.
Before you fire up the oven, make sure all of your smoke alarms are working and have working batteries, especially those near the kitchen. Also, have a fire extinguisher on hand. This is one of those cases where it’s better to be safe than sorry.
#3 Fry that bird outside.
It is never a good idea to fry a turkey indoors, no matter the weather. Keep the fryer outside, away from walls, and free from moisture. Why? Deep fryers pose a serious fire hazard. According to the National Fire Protection Association, deep fryers are responsible for five deaths, 60 injuries, the destruction of 900 homes, and more than $15-million in property damage every year.
Check out this article to discover which states have the most deep-fried turkey accidents.
#4 Keep an eye on the kids.
As you gather the family together, that can be lots of little ones running around. Innocent playing can quickly become dangerous as soon as you’ve got one chasing another through the kitchen. Keep kids a safe distance from all heat sources – the oven, the stove, the fryer – to prevent a fire or serious injury. Take a second to teach your kids about all you’re doing to promote Thanksgiving fire safety, so they can do their part to help.
#5 Turn off the heat.
As soon as you’re ready to serve that delicious meal, be sure to turn off all heat sources. It’s so easy to leave a burner on or forget to turn off the oven.
Are you hosting Thanksgiving at your house this year? Click here for some tips on making room in your home for all of your Turkey Day guests.