Thanksgiving is a holiday filled with family and food. It allows families to come together and to give thanks to all the blessings in their lives. This holiday begins in the kitchen and ends on the couch sleeping off all that food that is consumed throughout the day!
According to the NFPA, Thanksgiving is the peek day for home cooking fires. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, more than 4,000 fire happen each Thanksgiving Day.
Thanksgiving is also the most traveled holiday of the entire year!
With the holiday approaching, Frederick Mutual wants everyone to be aware of the dangers that could arise from either cooking in the kitchen, or through distracted driving.
Below are some helpful safety tips to utilize during the holiday:
Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking and remember to frequently check on the food.
With family and friends in attendance – user a timer to help guide you when to check on the food!
Remember not to use a glass container or lid on the stove or burner – Try using an aluminum foil pan, safer, and less cleanup!
Ensure all smoke detectors and sprinklers are working.
Never use water to douse a grease fire! – Turn off the burner and use either baking soda or a fire extinguisher to put out the fire.
Make sure you have enough pot holders and hand mittens to handle hot food.
Remember to unplug and turnoff appliances after using, especially the oven and stove!
When traveling, make sure to give yourself enough time and utilize your phone’s navigation system.
If you are traveling with supplies or a food dish, make sure to secure them in either the backseat or the trunk of the car.
If you are traveling far, make sure to get enough rest and stay hydrated to keep focus throughout the drive.
Put the cell phone away and keep your eyes on the road - Technology distractions are preventable and a leading cause of traffic accidents.
Use Rideshare or Designate Drivers – Even if you don’t drink and drive, there may be others that do. Take precaution to promote safe roadways and remain alert of those around you. Call the police if you notice a vehicle excessively swerving or engaging in unsafe driving practices.