Fire Safety Tips for Thanksgiving

We understand how stressful the holidays can be. From hosting loved ones to traveling long distances, to not burning the turkey, the last thing on your mind is making sure your smoke alarms are working. This Thanksgiving, before the festivities begin, take some time to prep your home for any fire threats that might arise.

1. Stay In The Kitchen While Cooking On The Stove
   Make sure whenever there is an open flame that you are watching it carefully. If you need to step away, ask a loved one to watch the flame or simply turn off the stove–turning off the stove prevents any possibility of the flame getting out of control while you are not present.
   
2. Use Caution With Deep Fryers
   When deep frying a turkey, always deep fry outdoors and at least 10 feet away from your home. Make sure that your fryer is on a stable, flat surface to avoid any chance of it tipping over.
   
3. Keep Fire Safety Equipment Nearby
   Fire safety equipment like fire extinguishers and smoke alarms should all be nearby and easily accessible. Before the holidays begin, check if your smoke alarms are on and functioning properly, and check if your fire extinguisher is not expired.
   
4. Be Mindful of Flammable Items Near Cooking Areas
   Keep towels, oven mitts, and paper items like recipe cards or napkins at a safe distance from the stove and other heat sources. Ensure that nothing flammable is within reach of burners or open flames, as these items can catch fire quickly.
   
5. Limit the Number of People in the Kitchen
   Thanksgiving kitchens are often bustling, but too many people in a small area can lead to accidents. Designate a primary cook or limit the number of people moving around near the stove and oven to prevent spills, burns, and distractions that could result in a fire.

By following these tips, you can keep your family safe and make the most of your Thanksgiving! From all of us at Esscoe, have a safe and joyful Thanksgiving!