Cooking fires are the number one cause of fires in the United States and Thanksgiving Day is the top day for cooking fires. Grease and cooking related claims more than double on Thanksgiving day, as compared to any other day. With families getting together and multiple appliances being used all at once, the increased risk for a cooking fire is very real. No matter what dishes you serve on Thanksgiving Day, knowing some simple preparedness tips will ensure a safe and fire free holiday.
The American Red Cross and Pekin Insurance give some helpful tips to use while cooking.
- Make sure your turkey is completely thawed. USDA says 24 hours for every 4 to 5 pounds.
- If you are using a turkey fryer, make sure it is outdoors and in an open area away from walls, fences, and anything else that could catch on fire. Also keep away from moisture that can cause serious burns from steam or splattering hot oil. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions exactly.
- Never use the fryer in or under your garage.
- Do not wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
- Make a kid free zone around the oven and other cooking areas.
- Don’t leave the kitchen or fryer unattended.
- Raise and lower food slowly to reduce splatter.
- Keep anything that can catch on fire away from the stove, for example oven mitts, wooden utensils, plastic and paper food packaging, towels, and anything else that might catch fire.
- If a fire does occur, do not attempt to put it out with water and call 911 immediately.
- After cooking is finished and the last guest leaves, make sure to check that all appliances, fires, and candles are extinguished.
- Smoke alarms save lives, make sure you have working smoke detectors in your home.
Eighty percent of Americans don’t realize that home fires are the single most common disaster across the nation. With that amount of people unaware of the dangers of cooking fires, its important to be prepared and follow the proper safety precautions. For all your home insurance needs, please contact our agents at Buttrey Wulff Mamminga Agency and we wish you a safe Thanksgiving Holiday.