When preparing your Thanksgiving meal, whether in advance or on the day itself, it’s essential to prioritize safety to avoid injuries and fires.
The latest report from the U.S. Fire Administration shows that Thanksgiving Day has the highest number of cooking fires in homes compared to any other day. Cooking is the leading cause of these fires, accounting for 74%, while heating is responsible for 8%. In contrast, cooking causes 51% of residential fires on all other days of the year.
Between 2019 and 2023, additional statistics from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) indicated that approximately 1,446 home cooking fires were reported to fire departments across the United States, representing a 388% increase compared to the daily average. On Thanksgiving Day, cooking was responsible for 80% of structure fires. Among those incidents, 40% of civilians suffered injuries.
As you gather ingredients and finalize your recipes, creating a safe cooking environment is essential. It can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and contribute to a pleasant Thanksgiving celebration for everyone. To ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones in the kitchen, follow these helpful tips:
- Never leave the kitchen unattended while cooking on the stove, especially when using oil, as it requires constant attention.
- Keep a lid nearby for pans in case of a fire. If a fire ignites, place the lid over the pan, turn off the burner, and wait for it to cool.
- Turn off the heat and close the door if your oven catches fire. Do not open the door until you’re sure the fire is out.
- Keep items such as potholders, oven mitts, and wooden or plastic utensils away from the stove and other appliances, as they can easily catch fire.
- Avoid wearing loose clothing or oversized sleeves while cooking to prevent them from coming into contact with flames or hot surfaces.
- Children and pets should stay at least three feet away from all cooking areas, as steam and hot spills can cause burns.
- While not recommended, do not leave a turkey unattended when frying it; always do so outdoors in an open area.
We hope these tips help keep your loved ones safe while you prepare delicious holiday meals. Holidays and great food go hand in hand, just like bundling your home and auto insurance with MAPFRE. Talk to an independent agent in your state or get a quick, free home insurance quote in Massachusetts today to see how much you could save!
