Give Thanks & Be Safe on Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Cooking Safety Steps

Thanksgiving day is a time to give thanks, spend quality time with family and friends, and tuck into some delicious homemade food! Unfortunately, with many cooks in their kitchens, accidents can happen. The United States fire departments responds to an average of 156,000 home fires per year involving cooking equipment. Thanksgiving takes the lead for home fires, with three times the amount of accidents on that day! Safety in the kitchen is important. It is imperative when there is a lot of activity and people at home on Thanksgiving day! Prepare your holiday meal without the home going down in flames (even though some family members think that your cooking will end up burnt to a crisp!). Take a look at these Thanksgiving safety guidelines:

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop.
• Remain in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove at all times!
• Never let children handle hot liquids such as gravy or coffee.
• Clear the kitchen floor of any children and dog toys.
• Keep matches, utility lights, and knives out of reach of children.
• Clean cooking surfaces regularly throughout the day to avoid grease buildup.
• Purchase a fire extinguisher to keep in the kitchen.
• Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving home.
• Install smoke alarms near the kitchen, on each level of the home, and near sleeping areas. Use the test button to check it each month.

Thanksgiving is a great time to get creative in the kitchen, but not to the detriment of your home. Be sure to practice fire prevention throughout the day and enable your home insurance to protect your house and belongings should a fire cause destruction. At Cook, Disharoon & Greathouse Insurance in Oakland, Northern California, we provide you with the correct coverage of homeowners insurance! Contact us today!