Thanksgiving Safety Tips for a Healthy and Happy Holiday

November 26, 2025

Thanksgiving is a time for cooking, gathering, and enjoying good company. It is also one of the busiest kitchen days of the year, which means accidents can happen if everyone is not careful. A little preparation can keep your home and family safe while you focus on what matters most.

Pumpkins, squash, and other vegetables on a table with a sign that says stay safe.

Most Thanksgiving accidents start in the kitchen. Here are simple ways to prevent kitchen incidents!

Stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling, or broiling food. Unattended cooking is the top cause of home fires
Keep flammable items like towels, oven mitts, and packaging away from the stovetop
Turn pot handles inward so children or pets cannot bump them
If a small grease fire starts, smother it with a lid and turn off the heat. Never use water!

Families often move quickly between ovens, counters, and serving areas. Prevent burns:

Keeping hot pans and dishes out of high-traffic walkways
Using oven mitts and trivets every time
Letting children know which areas are off limits while cooking is underway

Prepare Food Safely:

Thaw frozen turkeys in the refrigerator. Allow 24 hours for every 4 to 5 pounds
If frying the turkey, make sure the turkey is completely thawed and dry before lowering it into hot oil
Use separate cutting boards for raw meat and fresh produce
Cook turkey to an internal temperature of 165°F and check in several places
Refrigerate leftovers within two hours to avoid food poisoning

In general, make sure to test smoke alarms. Make sure everyone knows what they sound like. Thanksgiving should feel warm, relaxed, and welcoming, and taking the time to prevent kitchen accidents, cook safely, and protect your home means the only thing you have to worry about is who gets the last slice of pie!