Thankful for Fire Safety Tips

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

Prevent property damage by following these fire safety tips.

Did you know on Thanksgiving, more Americans cook dinner at home each year than any other day. According to USFA, it’s also the day with the highest rate of fire. To prevent fires in your home this holiday season, follow the tips listed below.

Keep Children Away From The Kitchen

If you have little ones, it’s best to keep them distracted and out of the kitchen. Children can pose a danger when they come and go from the kitchen frequently. They could leave a tripping hazard on the floor, or; their curious minds could lead them to hover too close to the stove and oven. NFPA suggests that you keep your wee ones at least 3 feet away from the stove to prevent personal injury.

Some children may like to help in the kitchen, and that’s perfectly fine. But consider giving them jobs that keep them away from open flames or hot surfaces. Peeling potatoes or mashing them is a task that makes them feel useful but can be done safely with adult supervision. They may even enjoy helping you stuff the turkey!

Keep An Eye on Your Food

Hosting Thanksgiving is a big job. It’s easy to get distracted by all of your responsibilities and leave the kitchen for long periods. This is where the fire risks get higher. Delegate tasks between members of the household so that there is at least one adult in the kitchen at any given time.  

Use Caution When Frying Your Turkey

 Deep-fried turkey can be a special treat, but; the process is risky. Property Casual 360 states, there are nearly 15 million dollars in claims made each year because of frying turkeys. Follow these tips to avoid fire and property damage this Thanksgiving.

1. Deep-fryers should be kept away from decks, garages, trees, and structures.
2. Before cooking, make sure the turkey is thawed completely. Mixing cold water with hot oil is a recipe for disaster.
3. Place the fryer on a level surface. Don't move it once you’ve started cooking.
4. To avoid overfilling the vat with oil, follow the directions.
5. Smaller turkeys are best. Deep-frying turkeys heavier than 12 pounds is not recommended.
6. Just like food on the stove, a frying turkey should not be left unattended. 
7. Before lowering the turkey into the oil, turn off the heat. Turn the burner on after the turkey is submerged.
8. Don’t stuff the turkey until after it’s done cooking.
9. Always keep children and pets away from the fryer. 
10. When the turkey is done cooking, remove the pot from the flame. Set it on a level surface, and cover it overnight to allow the oil to cool before discarding.

SERVPRO of Boone and Kenton County is so grateful for you. We wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for our amazing customers. We hope that you have a safe and wonderful Thanksgiving.