Staying Safe During the Holidays

Staying Safe During the Holidays

Friday, November 19, 2021

When preparing holiday meals and traveling to visit loved ones this season, it's important to remain alert and safe. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Thanksgiving Day is the No. 1 day of the year when home cooking fires occur. In addition, the National Safety Council estimates 485 people died in car accidents during the 2020 Thanksgiving weekend.

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security has released some basic tips Hoosiers should follow to stay safe this Thanksgiving.

Cooking Safety

• Stay nearby when cooking food on a stovetop, and stay at home while food is in the oven.
• Keep children and pets at least three feet away from hot surfaces.
• Make sure outdoor deep fryers are at a safe distance from buildings, porches and any other flammable materials.
• If the meat is not completely thawed before being cooked in a fryer, a grease fire could occur.
• Keep an all-purpose fire extinguisher nearby and never use water to douse a grease fire.

Travel Safety

• Keep track of weather and road conditions through local radio, news channels or social media postings.
• If traveling by car, have a mechanic check the vehicle before departing.
• Have a fully stocked emergency vehicle kit in the event of a car breakdown.
• Immediately report anything that appears suspicious to law enforcement.
• The day before Thanksgiving is the deadliest time for alcohol-related fatal accidents. Never drink alcohol and drive because it impairs physical and mental faculties.
• Utilize the TrafficWise website to monitor traffic conditions.

For more information on how to stay safe this Thanksgiving, click here.