We’re quickly approaching Thanksgiving, a time when kitchens come alive with non-stop cooking and cherished family gatherings. It’s a season of togetherness, gratitude, and of course, indulging in home-cooked meals. During this time, we must also recognize the importance of safety. The kitchen, where the magic happens, presents unique fire hazards.

In fact, kitchen fires are 3-4 times more likely to occur on Thanksgiving day than on any other typical day. 

It’s crucial to be aware of these risks and take preventive measures to ensure that the warmth of the season is coming from the heart, not from unexpected fires. Check out these FEMA-approved tips for preventing home fires this Thanksgiving below!

• Stand by your pan.
  Most cooking fires start when frying food. If you leave your kitchen, turn the burner off – leave nothing unattended. 
• Roll up your sleeves.
  What you wear significantly impacts the risk of fires. Opt out of wearing loose-fitting clothing and jewelry. If you have long hair, pull it back.
• Supervise children and pets.
  As much as you love them, it’s best to keep small children and pets out of the kitchen, especially the stove. 
• Move things that can burn away from the stove.
  This includes dishtowels, bags, boxes, paper, and curtains.
• Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove.
  This is so no one can bump them or pull them over.
• Only use a turkey fryer outdoors.
  Make sure that the fryer is on a sturdy surface, away from things that can burn.

A safe season is a happy season. Remember to follow proper kitchen precautions to keep your Thanksgiving celebrations as safe as they are delicious!