Thanksgiving is one of the busiest and most cherished holidays of the year, bringing family, friends, and a feast together in one place. However, the excitement of preparing an elaborate meal and hosting loved ones can also come with risks. Each year, Thanksgiving sees a rise in kitchen fires, foodborne illnesses, and even home security issues as people travel. To help you and your family stay safe, we’ve compiled five essential tips. Plus, we’ll show how your homeowners or renters insurance can offer peace of mind in case of an accident.
1. Practice Fire Safety in the Kitchen
Thanksgiving Day is one of the most common days for home fires, with deep-frying and oven-baking being some of the biggest culprits. Keep a close eye on all cooking activities, especially if you’re frying a turkey. Hot oil and open flames are a dangerous mix if left unattended, so designate a "cooking buddy" or set timers as reminders.
Insurance Tip: In the event of a kitchen fire, homeowners insurance can help cover the cost of repairs. Personal property coverage can also replace damaged appliances or furnishings.
2. Be Cautious with Turkey Deep-Frying
Deep-frying turkeys has become a popular Thanksgiving tradition, but it comes with serious risks. If you’re planning on frying your turkey, set up the fryer at least 10 feet away from any structures, including your home, garage, or deck. Always ensure the turkey is fully thawed before cooking to prevent dangerous oil splatters.
Insurance Tip: If a mishap with your deep fryer causes property damage, your homeowners insurance may help cover repairs. However, some policies may have specific exclusions for accidents involving cooking appliances used outdoors, so check with your agent.
3. Handle Food Safely to Prevent Illness
Thanksgiving is all about the food, but improper handling of meats and perishables can lead to foodborne illnesses. Make sure to thaw your turkey properly in the fridge and cook it to an internal temperature of 165°F. Refrigerate leftovers within two hours to avoid bacterial growth.
Insurance Tip: While insurance doesn’t cover illnesses caused by food mishandling, having liability insurance can provide protection if a guest were to get seriously ill and file a claim. It’s also good to remind guests of any food allergies to prevent accidents.
4. Secure Your Home if Traveling
Many people travel over the holidays, leaving homes vulnerable to break-ins. Before you leave, ensure all doors and windows are locked, set any alarms, and consider using light timers to give the appearance that someone is home. Asking a trusted neighbor to check in can also be a good security measure.
Insurance Tip: Homeowners or renters insurance generally includes coverage for theft and vandalism. If any valuables are stolen while you’re away, your policy can help cover the cost of replacing items like electronics, jewelry, or even your beloved holiday décor.
5. Protect Your Guests
If you’re hosting Thanksgiving, remember that slips, falls, and other common accidents can happen. Keep walkways clear of snow, leaves, or other debris, especially if the weather takes a turn. Be cautious with wet kitchen floors and make sure any electrical cords are out of the way.
Insurance Tip: If a guest is injured in your home, liability coverage within homeowners or renters insurance can help cover medical expenses. This coverage also extends to legal expenses if a guest decides to file a claim due to an injury on your property.
Final Thoughts
Thanksgiving is a time for celebration, but preparation is key to ensuring that it’s a safe and enjoyable holiday. By taking these simple precautions, you can minimize risks and enjoy peace of mind. And remember, homeowners or renters insurance can act as a safety net if something unexpected does happen.
If you’re unsure about your current coverage, feel free to reach out—we’re here to help you find the right level of protection for you and your family.