Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones, share a delicious meal, and reflect on all we’re grateful for.  To help you celebrate safely and ensure that your holiday is filled with joy, not unexpected mishaps, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  1. Stay Safe in the Kitchen

    • Never leave cooking unattended. The kitchen is the heart of Thanksgiving, but it’s also the leading site of home fires during the holiday.
    • Keep flammable items away. Dish towels, pot holders, and decorations should stay clear of the stove and oven.
    • Use timers. With so many dishes to prepare, it’s easy to forget something in the oven. Timers can be a lifesaver.
  1. Practice Safe Turkey Prep

    • Thaw safely. Always thaw your turkey in the refrigerator, not on the counter, to prevent bacteria growth.
    • Be cautious with fryers. If deep-frying your turkey, do it outdoors on a flat, non-flammable surface. Keep children and pets at a safe distance.
  1. Prevent Slips and Falls

    • Clear walkways. Ensure that sidewalks, driveways, and stairs are free of leaves, ice, or clutter to prevent accidents.
    • Use proper lighting. Make sure outdoor and indoor areas are well-lit to help guests navigate safely.
  1. Be Mindful of Candles and Decorations

    • Use flameless candles. These are a safer alternative to open flames, especially if children or pets are around.
    • Avoid overloading outlets. Too many decorations plugged into one outlet can increase fire risk.
  1. Protect Against Foodborne Illness

    • Cook thoroughly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
    • Store leftovers properly. Refrigerate perishable items within two hours to prevent spoilage.
  1. Travel Safely

    • Plan your route. Check traffic and weather before heading out.
    • Drive cautiously. Roads can be busier than usual; stay alert and obey traffic laws.
    • Never drink and drive. Arrange for a designated driver if needed.
  1. Be Pet-Friendly

    • Keep harmful foods out of reach. Foods like chocolate, onions, and grapes can be toxic to pets.
    • Provide a safe space. With all the activity, some pets may feel overwhelmed. Give them a quiet area to relax.

Thanksgiving is about celebrating and making memories with those who matter most. By following these safety tips, you can focus on what’s truly important without unnecessary worries.

Read Other Blog Posts

Family decorating tree

Decorate Safely During the Holidays

While holiday decorations can be fun and beautiful, they can also present fire hazards. To keep your home and family safe throughout this holiday season, consider the following decorating tips.
Thanksgiving Safety Tips

Thanksgiving Safety Tips for a Happy Holiday

Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones, share a delicious meal, and reflect on all we’re grateful for.  To help you celebrate safely and ensure that your holiday is filled with joy, not unexpected mishaps. here are some tips to keep in mind.
Car tire

Vehicle Breakdown Safety Basics

No one ever plans to experience a vehicle breakdown. That’s why it’s important to plan ahead and be prepared in order to handle such a situation safely. Implement the following guidance to ensure you remain safe and injury-free in the event that you get stuck on the road.
Calculator

How Insurers Calculate Premiums

Depending on the type of policy, an insurance premium must be paid monthly, twice a year or annually. Each policy type will have also have a different premium amount based on the coverage and policyholder. It’s essential to understand how premiums are calculated so you can secure the best deal without sacrificing coverage.
Drowsy

Preventing Drowsy Driving

Every year, the National Sleep Foundation organizes Drowsy Driving Prevention Week to raise awareness about the dangers of driving while fatigued.
Smoke Detector

Daylight Saving Time Change: A Perfect Reminder to Check Your Smoke and CO Detectors

Daylight savings time is a perfect opportunity to keep your home safe by checking your smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors. Time change days are memorable markers, making it easy to establish this habit without any extra reminders.
Flooding

Why Flood Insurance is Essential: Lessons from Hurricanes Helene and Milton

The devastating impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton have shown that flood risk isn’t limited to coastal areas. These storms have highlighted a crucial gap that individuals and businesses need to be aware of: flood damage is generally not included in typical home, condo, renters, or commercial property insurance, making a separate flood insurance policy essential for true protection.
Deer

Defensive Driving to Avoid Deer Collisions

With deer mating season in full swing from October through December, drivers face an increased risk of collisions. As deer are more active, especially around dawn and dusk, habitat loss has pushed them closer to roadways. Here’s how defensive driving can help you avoid an accident.
Driving Car

Factors Affecting Your Car Insurance Rate

The cost of auto insurance is influenced by a wide range of factors. Together, these variables shape the overall cost of auto insurance. With this in mind, it can be helpful to better understand how the following elements may impact your rates:

Visit Our Personal Insurance Page

Personal Insurance

Life is an ever-changing journey, and it deserves a thoughtful, comprehensive plan to protect the things and people that matter most. Our dedicated team at Murphy Insurance is here to assist you in creating that plan. With a wide range of product options at our disposal, we ensure that your plan is tailored precisely to your requirements. Our commitment to providing clear, intelligent guidance to help you achieve true peace of mind. Learn more about our personal insurance portfolio.