Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family and friends, give thanks, and enjoy a delicious feast. Keep your family and friends safe with these tips to help you have a safe Thanksgiving.
1. Inspect Your Home for Safety Hazards
If you’re hosting a Thanksgiving meal at your house, make sure your living spaces are safe. Look for safety hazards like loose handrails and tripping hazards. Check that your smoke detectors are working and that your fire extinguisher is up-to-date. If young children are visiting, take steps to babyproof your home.
2. Watch the Kids
Thanksgiving is a busy time, and it can be easy to get lax about supervising small children. Designate an adult to watch them at all times. Keep kids out of the kitchen while food is prepared to boost safety for the adults making the meal.
3. Be Careful with Knives
Sharp knives are necessary for preparing a Thanksgiving feast but can also be dangerous. Always cut away from yourself and keep your fingers clear of the blade. During food preparation, pay attention to your workspace. It can be easy to get involved in a conversation and neglect basic safety practices in the kitchen.
4. Avoid Food Poisoning for a Safe Thanksgiving
Undercooked food is a common cause of food poisoning on Thanksgiving. Make sure your turkey is cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.
5. Stay Sober While Cooking
Cooking can be challenging, especially so when you’re intoxicated. If you’re in charge of the meal, avoid drinking alcohol while preparing food. Accidents and fires are more likely to occur when you are unable to focus on the task at hand. Know your limits and stay safe while cooking your Thanksgiving meal.
6. For a Safe Thanksgiving, Keep an Eye on Your Pets
Pets will be curious about the activity on Thanksgiving Day and may get underfoot in the kitchen or try to take food off the table. Keep animals in another room or crate them during meal prep and dinner so everyone stays safe.
7. Food Storage for a Safe Thanksgiving
Bacteria can start to grow on food sitting out for more than two hours, so it’s important to put leftovers in the fridge as soon as possible. Proper storage helps leftover food last longer. Wrap dishes tightly in foil or plastic wrap before putting them in the fridge. Take a moment to label the food, so you’ll know what it is in the refrigerator and on what date it was made.
These simple tips can help ensure a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving for everyone. From preventing fires to avoiding foodborne illnesses, keep your family safe this holiday season.
Old House Home Inspectors provides inspections for customers buying or selling older homes and historic properties in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Contact us to schedule our services.