Thanksgiving is a time to eat, drink, and be merry with the people you’re most thankful for — but it’s also one of the most dangerous days of the year for homeowners. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that Thanksgiving incidents have caused millions of dollars in property losses over the past two decades. Between cooking fires, slippery walkways, and a little too much holiday cheer, homeowners face more risks than they realize.
Here’s how policyholders can help keep the holiday safe — and avoid filing preventable claims.
1. Cook Safely on the #1 Day for Home Fires
Thanksgiving tops the charts for home cooking fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking causes half of all reported home fires and more than two in five home fire injuries. Distractions, hot cookware, and unsafe frying practices are some of the biggest culprits.
Safe cooking reminders for policyholders:
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors before cooking begins.
- Make sure the turkey is completely thawed and dry before cooking or frying.
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and ready to use.
- Set timers and check food frequently.
- If frying, always cook outdoors on a flat, nonflammable surface.
- Avoid overfilling fryers with oil, and use extreme caution when lowering or raising the turkey.
- If a fire starts and you’re unsure whether it’s safe to put out, evacuate and call 911 immediately.
While homeowners insurance may help repair or rebuild after a fire, prevention is always the best protection.
2. Prevent Slips and Falls
Fires aren’t the only Thanksgiving hazard. Wet leaves, spilled food, and icy walkways can all cause guests to slip and fall — potentially leading to costly liability claims.
Tips for avoiding accidents:
- Clear walkways, steps, and driveways of leaves, snow, or ice.
- Wipe up spills quickly, especially grease or liquids in cooking areas.
- Ensure adequate lighting along pathways and porches.
Homeowners should confirm they have enough personal liability coverage to protect against potential medical or legal expenses if someone is injured on their property.
3. Monitor Alcohol Consumption
Holiday celebrations often include cocktails, but overindulgence can increase the risk of accidents, property damage, or fights. Even if guests aren’t driving, hosts can still be held liable for injuries or damage caused by intoxicated guests.
Responsible hosting advice:
- Offer non-alcoholic drink options.
- Encourage rideshares or designated drivers.
- Stop serving alcohol well before the event ends.
- Ensure guests drinking alcohol have a safe way home.
Liability insurance can help cover expenses if an alcohol-related incident occurs, but policyholders should review their coverage for social host or liquor liability protection before hosting large gatherings.
4. Review Insurance Coverage Before Hosting
Before opening their homes to guests, homeowners should take a moment to review their insurance policies. Adequate dwelling, personal property, and liability coverage can make all the difference if something goes wrong.
Encouraging clients to check their coverage now can help them avoid costly surprises later — and ensure their Thanksgiving celebrations stay joyful, safe, and claim-free.
Give Thanks for Good Coverage
From cooking fires to slips, spills, and spirited guests, Thanksgiving brings a mix of joy and potential hazards. With the right precautions and proper insurance protection, policyholders can focus on what really matters: celebrating safely with loved ones.