The season to give thanks is here. This Thanksgiving, we may all be feeling a little more grateful that we are able to see friends and family. While this year has been unlike any other, now is the time to come together and support each other – while following all recommended COVID precautions, of course. Thanksgiving also kicks off the festive season, and is a great way to spend quality time cooking, socializing, and relaxing. This day can be filled with fun, festivities, food – and stress. With a little planning and some extra attention, your holiday can be a safe one. After all, no one wants to visit the hospital or have to call their insurer on Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving Safety Tips to Prevent Insurance Claims
- Make sure to cook all food at a high enough temperature. Test the inside of the food with a thermometer rather than looking at the color of it. Visit https://www.foodsafety.gov/food-safety-charts/safe-minimum-cooking-temperature with questions about food temps.
- Keep a fire extinguisher that is approved for grease fires near the kitchen in the event that there is a fire. Remember, never put out a grease fire with water.
- Unattended cooking can lead to accidents. Be sure to stay in the kitchen if you are cooking and the oven is on. Timers are a great way to ensure that you don’t forget about something cooking while you enjoying time with the family.
- Keep flammable objects, such as pot holders, oven mitts, towels, and wooden utensils away from the stovetop, oven, and other appliances in the kitchen that generate heat.
- Avoid wearing loose clothing and long sleeves while cooking.
- Keep pets and children out of the kitchen.
- Smoke alarms saves lives. Install a smoke alarm near your kitchen if you do not already have one. Test it to ensure it is in good working order.
- Keep an eye on guests who are drinking. If someone seems like they have enjoyed more than their fair share, consider subtly restricting the alcohol flow. Ensure that he or she does not get in their vehicle to drive home. Either call him or her an Uber or let them stay the night.
- Extinguish all fires and candles safely before leaving the house or going to bed.
- If you have pet guests on the big day, they will want to get involved in the action. Keep in mind that some Thanksgiving food is dangerous to our furry friends. While you can visit the ASPCA for a list of dangerous foods to avoid, better yet, give them their own little safe feast or a pet treat.
- If you are spending the holiday away from home, ensure that all doors and windows are locked. Set some lights on timers so that it appears as if someone is home. Tell a couple of trusted neighbors about your going-away plans so that they can call the police if they spot suspicious activity.
- Be prepared. If you are hosting Thanksgiving, you may have more liability concerns to consider. Talk to your insurance agent beforehand. He or she will be able to help you understand what is and is not covered in your home insurance policy.
There’s a lot to be thankful for. However you choose to spend your holiday, keep these safety tips in mind to prevent accidents from happening. From our family to yours, we wish you all the best of the Thanksgiving season. When looking to secure reliable insurance for the festive period ahead, talk to the team at Tompkins Insurance Agencies. We look forward to for helping you find the right solution for your needs.
