_edited.png)
Thanksgiving is just a few short weeks away, and with it, the official start of the holiday season! Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones, enjoying delicious food, watching football, and expressing gratitude for all that we have. Through all the fun and time with friends and family, the holidays are busy and sometimes hectic. Through all the hustle and bustle, it's important to prioritize safety during this festive season. Whether you're hosting a Thanksgiving dinner or traveling to visit family and friends, following these safety tips can help ensure a memorable and accident-free holiday where your home, property, and family are protected.
Kitchen Safety
Nobody likes a burnt turkey, but accidents happen! Kitchen safety is even more important during the holidays. Cooking fires in residential buildings occur more often on Thanksgiving Day than on any other day of the year (FEMA). These fires caused an estimated annual average of 5 deaths, 25 injuries, and $26 million in property loss. Remember these important Fire Safety tips when preparing your Thanksgiving feast:
Never leave cooking unattended, especially when using stovetops or ovens. Don't leave home while the turkey is cooking!
Keep flammable items, such as kitchen towels and oven mitts, away from open flames.
Install and test smoke detectors in your home, and have a fire extinguisher readily available.
Food Safety
The Thanksgiving meal at our house is a can't miss event. It's the best meal of the year and so much goes into preparing it! When you're preparing your Thanksgiving meal, be sure to keep food safety in mind so everyone can enjoy it.. and the leftovers all weekend long!
Thoroughly wash your hands before handling food and after handling raw poultry or meat.
Store, Thaw, and Handle your turkey property. Store your turkey in the freezer until it's ready to be thawed. Thaw your turkey in the refrigerator or cold water. Wash your hands and use a cutting board when handling raw turkey.
Cook turkey and other poultry to the proper internal temperature to avoid foodborne illnesses.
Refrigerate leftovers promptly and consume them within a safe timeframe.
Learn more important Thanksgiving food safety tips at
Travel Safety
Not everyone can stay home on Thanksgiving... otherwise, there would be no big family gatherings! If you're traveling this Thanksgiving, remember a few important tips.
If driving:
Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and plan your route in advance.
Buckle up and ensure all passengers are properly restrained.
Avoid distracted driving, such as texting or using your phone while behind the wheel.
If flying
Plan & Prepare - Book flights ahead of time and know your route around the airport.
Pack smart - Avoid wrapping gifts before the airport and remember liquid rules (3-1-1).
Arrive early - Lines for TSA may be longer than normal!
There is so much to look forward to and enjoy about Thanksgiving and the whole holiday season! By following these Thanksgiving safety tips, you can protect yourself and your loved ones, ensuring a joyful and accident-free holiday celebration. Remember, safety should always be a top priority, allowing you to fully enjoy your special Thanksgiving!