Stay Safe This Thanksgiving: How to Prevent Turkey Fires

As Thanksgiving approaches, it's time for families to gather, give thanks, and enjoy a delicious turkey feast. However, amidst the festivities, it's crucial to remember that Thanksgiving is also the peak day for home cooking fires. As public adjusters, we see the aftermath of these incidents and want to ensure your holiday remains joyous and safe. Here are some essential tips to avoid turkey fires:

1. Never Leave Your Cooking Unattended

The leading cause of kitchen fires is unattended cooking. Always stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling, or broiling your turkey. If you must leave, even for a short time, turn off the stove.

2. Use Turkey Fryers with Caution

Deep-frying a turkey can be dangerous. Use fryers outdoors, away from buildings and any flammable materials. Never use them on wooden decks or in garages. Ensure the turkey is thawed and dry before frying to prevent oil spill-over.

3. Keep Your Cooking Area Clean

Grease buildup can ignite a fire. Keep the stove, oven, and surrounding areas clean from grease and flammable items like oven mitts, wooden utensils, or towels.

4. Install and Test Smoke Alarms

Ensure you have working smoke alarms in and near your kitchen. Test them before the holiday to ensure they are functioning correctly.

5. Have a Fire Extinguisher Handy

Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and familiarize yourself with how to use it. In the event of a small fire, you can act quickly to prevent it from spreading.

6. Be Prepared for Emergencies

In case of a fire, have an emergency plan in place. Ensure everyone knows how to exit the house safely and has a designated meeting spot outside.

7. Understand Your Insurance Policy

As public adjusters, we recommend reviewing your homeowner's insurance policy before the holidays. Understand what is covered in case of a fire and ensure your policy is up-to-date.

8. Seek Professional Help for Claims

In the unfortunate event of a fire, contact a public adjuster immediately. We advocate for you, ensuring you get the maximum benefit from your insurance claim and guiding you through the recovery process.

Stay safe and happy Thanksgiving!