The most wonderful time of year is approaching filled with family, friends and full bellies. Don’t let the holiday festivities turn into catastrophe at your home. The National Fire Protection Association reports that the leading cause of home fires and home injuries is due to cooking related incidents. It is no surprise that the most cooking related home fires occur on Thanksgiving Day each year with families and friends busy in their kitchens preparing meals for their loved ones.
The good news? There are simple steps you can take this Thanksgiving to protect your home and family while enjoying the holiday.
- Never leave cooking equipment or cooking food unattended.
- Remove flammable items (pot holders, dish towels, curtains, food packaging, etc.) from areas surrounding heat generating appliances or cooking equipment.
- Check the batteries in your smoke alarms and test your home fire extinguisher.
- Allow an ample amount of space between your home and grills, turkey fryers and other outdoor cookers when cooking. Although fried turkeys are a favorite for many, the greatest risk for fires stems from fryers.
- Do not wear loose clothing, aprons, dangling flammable jewelry, scarves and other flammable items that can put you at risk while cooking.
There are many resources available on the internet with tips on how to avoid and react to cooking fires. Take the time this Holiday Season to arm yourself with this knowledge.
Home and automobile accidents increase over the holiday season. Take this time to review your insurance policies to be sure that your coverage is adequate. Keep your policies and insurance professional’s contact information in a safe, easy to access location to expedite the report of a claim if needed.
Do not hesitate to call one of McKay Insurance’s experienced professionals at 843-881-2229 if you are interested in a comprehensive insurance review this holiday season. We are always available and happy to help!
Post courtesy of McKay Insurance