Thanksgiving Cooking Safety

Joe Bryson • November 25, 2024

Why It’s the Perfect Time to Check Your Smoke Detectors

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and with it comes the irresistible aroma of turkey roasting in the oven, pies baking, and stovetops bubbling with family recipes. However, while we’re busy creating delicious memories in the kitchen, it’s also one of the busiest days of the year for fire departments across the country.

At Stellar Equity Homes, we want you to enjoy a safe and stress-free holiday season, so let’s talk about Thanksgiving cooking safety and the simple step you can take to protect your home: checking your smoke detectors.

The Thanksgiving Cooking Rush
Did you know that Thanksgiving sees more home cooking fires than any other day of the year? Between juggling multiple dishes, entertaining guests, and the occasional distraction, it’s easy for something to go awry. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of these fires, which can turn a joyous celebration into a dangerous situation in seconds.

The Role of Smoke Detectors
Your smoke detectors are your first line of defense. A working smoke detector gives you early warning in case of a fire, allowing you and your loved ones to act quickly. Whether it’s a forgotten pie in the oven or a stovetop mishap, smoke detectors are critical to keeping your family and home safe.

The Role of Fire Extinguishers
While smoke detectors provide early warning, a fire extinguisher can be a crucial tool for quickly handling small kitchen fires before they spread. Keep a fire extinguisher in an easily accessible location, such as under the sink or near the kitchen entrance, and ensure it’s rated for grease and electrical fires (Class B and C). Before Thanksgiving, take a moment to check its expiration date and review how to use it with your family. Remember the PASS method: Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep side to side.

Quick Tips for Thanksgiving Cooking Safety

Here are a few ways to keep your kitchen safe this Thanksgiving:

1. Stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you need to leave, turn off the stove.

2. Keep flammable items like oven mitts, dish towels, and food packaging away from heat sources.

3. Set a timer for each dish, so you don’t lose track of cooking times.

4. Avoid distractions. Enlist help with guests or kids, so you can focus on the food.

Test Those Smoke Detectors!

Thanksgiving is the perfect reminder to check your smoke detectors and fire extinguisher. Here’s how:

Press the test button to ensure the alarm is working.

Replace the batteries if you haven’t done so in the past year or if the alarm chirps.

Clean the detector by gently vacuuming or dusting to remove debris that might interfere with its function.

Check the extinguisher gauge and ensure it is in the green.  Check the tag or label to ensure that it is not expired.  Make sure fire extinguisher is easily accessible.  

Bonus Tip: Have an Escape Plan

If the unthinkable happens and a fire breaks out, make sure everyone in your household knows how to evacuate quickly. Discuss your plan in advance and ensure all exits are clear.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving is a time to gather, give thanks, and create wonderful memories—but it’s also a time to stay vigilant. By practicing good cooking habits and checking your smoke detectors, you can enjoy the holiday with peace of mind.

From all of us at Stellar Equity Homes, we wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving!
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