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Please Don’t Burn Your House Down This Thanksgiving

Posted in Accident & Injury, Health & Wellness on November 14, 2024

Thanksgiving Fires

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, it’s important to recognize the heightened risk of cooking fires associated with this holiday. Cooking fires are the leading cause of residential fires and injuries in the United States, and Thanksgiving Day experiences the highest number of home cooking fires of any day in the year.

The National Fire Protection Association reported that fire departments responded to nearly 1,610 kitchen fires on Thanksgiving in 2022, representing a 399% increase compared to the daily average.

Why Does Thanksgiving See So Many Cooking Fires?

The leading cause of these fires is unattended cooking, as people often need to focus on other holiday activities. Fires peak midday and early evening, specifically between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Additionally, 25% of Thanksgiving fires extend beyond the kitchen, resulting in significant property damage in some instances.

Other leading causes include:

  • Faulty cooking equipment that may overheat or malfunction
  • Flammable items like dish towels or paper products left too close to heat sources
  • Cluttered kitchens with limited space for safe cooking
  • Loose clothing that may catch fire around open flames

If a fire starts, it’s crucial to understand that handling it yourself can be hazardous. Statistics indicate that more than half of all non-fatal fire injuries happen when individuals attempt to control cooking fires on their own. Instead, evacuate everyone from the home, close the doors to help contain the fire, and call your local fire department for assistance.

Turkey Fryer Fires and Explosions

For those who enjoy fried turkey, it’s essential to exercise caution: turkey fryers can pose a significant fire hazard if not used correctly. These fryers can reach dangerously high temperatures, and when combined with hot oil, spills or splashes can easily ignite, resulting in fires and potential injuries. To prevent fryer accidents, always place the fryer outside in a clear, open area away from buildings, trees, and other structures.

From all of us at Elk + Elk, stay safe, enjoy your holiday, and keep these fire safety tips in mind for a safe and happy Thanksgiving with family and friends!