Use these tips to help prevent a Thanksgiving fire
Thanksgiving is one of the most celebrated holidays in America. It is a time for family and friends to gather around a dinner table to say thanks for their blessings. Unfortunately, Thanksgiving has also become synonymous with home fires and The Insurance Center would like to share some tips that can help homeowners safely enjoy an otherwise, memorable, and festive day.
“Most Thanksgiving fires are directly linked to cooking,” said Robert J. Sammon, President of The Insurance Center. “It cannot be overstated how important it is for hosts to remain attentive of what’s cooking because fires can spread quickly, and many of those fires could have been prevented.”
The latest statistics from the National Fire Protection Association reveal that there are roughly 2,400 residential fires that happen every year. Those fires are estimated to cost $20 million in property losses. To help homeowners mitigate losses and prevent fires on Thanksgiving, the Insurance Center would like to share these essential safety tips:
Make Sure Smoke Alarms are Installed and Working Properly
Smoke alarms should be placed in every bedroom and on every floor within your home. Homeowners are also encouraged to test their device by pressing a ‘test’ button located on the alarm.
Keep Kids Away from the Hot Stove
Hosts should aim to keep children at least three feet away from the stove. This will prevent them from being injured, but it will also reduce the likelihood that they might place a flammable item near the stove.
Do Not Leave the Stove Unattended for Extended Periods of Time
Hosts should always keep an eye on food that is cooking. If you must step away from the stove, it is important to ask someone else to keep watch.
Consider Changing Loose-Fitting Clothing
Sleeves that are resting on hot stoves while you are stirring pots could catch fire or could pull pots and pans that are currently in use. Consider wearing a short-sleeve shirt to avoid an accident.
Place Combustible Items Away from the Stove
Non-stick cooking sprays are convenient to use and can be helpful in the cooking process if they are used safely. Given their propensity to explode when placed near heat, it is important that cans remain far away from hot stoves.
If you are heading to a friend or family member’s house to join in the festivities, The Insurance Center encourages you to keep these safety tips in mind. The Insurance Center has been protecting families from significant losses for over 100 years by providing comprehensive home, auto, and business insurance. Speak with one of our agents to learn about the insurance products we offer, and to discuss your individual insurance needs.