Fire Safety Tips for a Safe Thanksgiving Season

11/22/2024 (Permalink)

Fire Safety Tips for a Safe Thanksgiving Season

The Thanksgiving season is a time to gather with loved ones, share laughter, and enjoy delicious meals around the table. However, the same activities that make this time of year so special can also increase the risk of fire hazards in your home. At SERVPRO®, we want to help you focus on what truly matters—your family, friends, and traditions— while also ensuring your safety.

The Heart of Thanksgiving: Cooking with Care

For many families, the kitchen becomes the heart of the home during Thanksgiving. It’s where the turkey roasts, the pies bake, and the memories are made. But it’s also where the majority of home fires start during this season. Unattended cooking is one of the leading causes of these fires, so it’s important to stay vigilant.

Make it a habit to remain in the kitchen whenever the stove or oven is on. If you’re juggling multiple dishes, enlist a helper to keep an eye on things while you step away. Keep flammable items like dish towels, paper, or wooden utensils far from burners. And while deep-fried turkeys may be a popular tradition, they come with their own set of risks. If you’re planning to fry your turkey, ensure you do it outdoors, on a flat surface, and away from any structures.

Candles and Decorations: Adding Ambiance Without Risk

Candles bring a warm, festive glow to any Thanksgiving table, but they also account for a significant number of home fires during the holiday season. If you’re using candles to set the mood, place them in sturdy holders and away from flammable items like curtains or tablecloths. Never leave them unattended, and always extinguish them before leaving the room.

For an equally cozy and safer alternative, consider using flameless LED candles. They provide the same ambiance without the worry, allowing you to focus on creating joyful memories.

Staying Warm Without Worry

As the cooler weather sets in, fireplaces and space heaters become essential for creating a cozy atmosphere. Before lighting your fireplace, ensure it’s been properly cleaned and inspected for any blockages or creosote buildup. Keep a screen in front of the fire to prevent sparks from escaping, and never leave a fire burning unattended.

For space heaters, follow manufacturer guidelines carefully. Keep them on a flat surface and at least three feet away from anything flammable. Always turn them off before leaving the room or going to bed.

Be Prepared for the Unexpected

No one wants to think about the possibility of a fire during a time of celebration, but having a plan in place can make all the difference. Ensure your smoke alarms are in working order by testing them before the holiday season begins. Have a fire extinguisher easily accessible in the kitchen and educate everyone in your home on how to use it.

If an emergency does occur, having a clear evacuation plan can help everyone remain calm and safe. Practice this plan with your family, especially if children or elderly relatives will be spending Thanksgiving with you.

SERVPRO is Here for You

At SERVPRO, we understand how overwhelming the holiday season can be, especially if the unexpected happens. Should your home experience fire damage, smoke damage, or any other emergency, our team is here to help. We specialize in restoring homes quickly and efficiently so you can get back to enjoying the moments that matter most.

This Thanksgiving, let’s prioritize safety so we can all focus on what truly makes the season special: time spent with the ones we love. From all of us at SERVPRO, we wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving season.

If you need us, we’re just a call away, 24/7, 365 days a year. Because at SERVPRO, we’re committed to being there for you, "Like it never even happened.”