Thanksgiving Kitchen Safety: Preventing Fires and Injuries

Every Thanksgiving, kitchen safety becomes a pressing concern as the day sees an alarming increase in cooking-related fires. In 2023, nearly 1,500 cooking fires were reported across the United States, marking a staggering 388% rise compared to the daily average. This data, released by the National Fire Protection Association, highlights that Thanksgiving Day experiences four times more kitchen fires than any other day of the year.

According to the association’s analysis of data from 2019 to 2023, cooking equipment is responsible for 80% of all home fires on Thanksgiving. Civilian injuries occur in 40% of these incidents. The most significant hazards are ranges and cooktops, which account for nearly three of every five cooking-related fires, while ovens are responsible for 13%.

As Michele Pankow, the Illinois State Fire Marshal, pointed out, “Kitchens are especially busy during the holidays, and that rush can lead to distractions; those distractions can lead to accidental fires.” To mitigate risks, she recommends setting timers, maintaining focus, or assigning specific roles in the kitchen, ensuring that Thanksgiving meals are prepared safely.

Cooking remains the leading cause of residential fires throughout the year. Nationally, kitchen fires account for 52% of all reported home fires and lead to 36% of fire-related injuries. Furthermore, cooking is the third leading cause of fire deaths, claiming 17% of fatalities. The American Burn Association estimates that nearly 500,000 individuals seek medical treatment for burn injuries each year in the United States, with approximately 72% of these injuries occurring at home. Hot liquids, such as coffee, tea, and soup, pose serious burn risks.

Fried turkey has become a popular dish during the holiday season, yet it also presents significant fire hazards. Brandon Keller, the Deputy Fire Commissioner of Chicago, stated, “Hot oil, unstable equipment, and outdoor distractions can create dangerous conditions in seconds.” He advises anyone opting to fry a turkey to do so outdoors, away from flammable materials, and to ensure the turkey is fully thawed before lowering it into hot oil. Simple precautions can avert a holiday disaster.

Fire officials recommend several safety measures to follow when preparing food, not just during the holiday season but throughout the entire year.

First, never leave food unattended while frying, boiling, grilling, or broiling. If you must leave the kitchen, even momentarily, it is crucial to turn off the stove. Additionally, when frying a turkey, avoid overfilling the oil in the fryer. A useful tip is to fill the pot with water and place the turkey inside to determine the appropriate amount of oil needed, preventing spills that could lead to a fire.

It is essential to fry turkeys only outdoors. Ensure that the turkey is completely thawed and dry before frying, and use long cooking gloves to protect your hands and arms while handling hot pots. Establish a “Kid Free Zone” of at least three feet around the stove or any area where hot food or drinks are prepared. Keep the cooking area clear of flammable materials, such as towels and papers, and check your oven before preheating to ensure there are no items inside.

While cooking, monitor your food regularly, remain in the kitchen, and use a timer to remind you when it is ready. In the event of an oven fire, keep the door shut and turn off the heat. To extinguish small flames in a pan, slide a lid over the pan and turn off the burner, allowing it to cool. If there’s any uncertainty about fighting a small fire, evacuate immediately and contact emergency services.

As the holiday approaches, Philip Zaleski, Executive Director of the Illinois Fire Safety Alliance, emphasizes the importance of safety. “As we gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, we want to remind everyone that a few extra minutes of preparation and safety can prevent a lifetime of pain,” he stated. While deep-frying a turkey may add festivity to the occasion, it is paramount to exercise caution or consider safer cooking alternatives. After all, the best holiday memories are made around the table, not in the emergency room.