Thanksgiving Fire Safety Tips for Salem, Oregon
As Thanksgiving approaches, it's important to remember that this holiday can lead to an increase in home fires, particularly those involving cooking equipment. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Thanksgiving is the leading day for such fires. In 2019, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 1,400 cooking fires on Thanksgiving, making it the peak day for these incidents. Unattended cooking remains the leading cause of fires and fire-related injuries.
With some careful planning and awareness, families can ensure a safe and joyful holiday. Here are essential Thanksgiving safety tips from the experts at ServiceMaster Restore:
Cooking Safety Tips
What To Do:
- Inspect Fire Alarms
Before Thanksgiving Day, check your fire alarms. Replace batteries annually and test each alarm monthly to ensure they function properly. Press the test button to confirm they’ll alert you in case of an emergency. - Monitor Cooking Food
Keep an eye on your dishes as they cook. Use timers to remind you when to check on specific items, especially if you’re preparing multiple dishes at once. - Keep Children Safe
Maintain a distance of at least three feet between young children and the cooking area to prevent accidents. - Clean Regularly
Wipe down surfaces to reduce grease buildup, which can ignite if a fire occurs. - Have a Fire Extinguisher Handy
Keep a fire extinguisher within reach in case a fire breaks out. Quick access can prevent significant damage. - Turn Off Cooking Equipment
Ensure all cooking appliances—ovens, stoves, fryers, and small gadgets—are turned off at the end of the day.
What NOT To Do:
- Never Leave Cooking Food Unattended
Stay in the kitchen while cooking. If you must step away, turn off the stove to prevent accidents. - Avoid Loose Clothing
Do not wear loose-fitting clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking, as these can catch fire or cause spills. - Keep Flammable Items Away
Avoid placing anything that could catch fire near the stove, including potholders, oven mitts, food packaging, and wooden utensils.
By following these cooking safety tips, you can help prevent accidents this Thanksgiving. As winter approaches, remember to also apply winter holiday fire safety measures to keep your loved ones safe throughout the season.
If a fire does occur in your home, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experts at ServiceMaster of Salem at 503-585-4017. With our expertise, advanced tools, and innovative equipment, we can get your home back to normal quickly. Let us turn your uncertainty into confidence.
From all of us at ServiceMaster of Salem, we wish you a wonderful time with friends and family this holiday season!
