A Homeowner's Guide to Thanksgiving Cooking Safety and Coverage

As Thanksgiving approaches, kitchens across the country fill with loved ones, food, and the excitement of preparing a big meal. While holiday cooking brings people together, it is also the number one day for home cooking fires in the United States. In 2023, almost 1,500 cooking fires were reported on Thanksgiving, which is 388% above the daily average (NFPA, 2024). A little preparation can help keep the holiday enjoyable and safe.

Why Thanksgiving Is the Peak Day for Cooking Accidents

Cooking in general is already responsible for the largest share of home fires throughout the year, and on Thanksgiving, the risk grows even higher. The NFPA reports that cooking accounts for roughly half of all home fire calls, more than one-third of home fire injuries, and a significant portion of home fire deaths annually (2024).

The combination of crowded kitchens, distractions, hot appliances, and deep-fried turkey makes it a perfect storm for accidents.

Grease Fires: A Common Holiday Hazard

Grease fires can start quickly and spread fast, especially when cooking with oil. Responding correctly is essential.

If a grease fire begins:

• Turn the heat off immediately
• Place a metal lid over the pan to cut off oxygen
• Use baking soda for small fires
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and use it if needed
• NEVER use water

Top Cooking Safety Tips for a Low-Stress Holiday

A few precautions can keep your kitchen safer and reduce the chance of needing to file a claim.

• Stay in the kitchen when cooking anything on the stovetop. Distractions lead to fires fast.
• Keep kids and pets at least 3 feet away from hot surfaces and cooking zones.
• Use a timer—it’s easy to forget something in the oven when juggling multiple dishes.
• Keep flammable items away from burners, including towels, pot holders, and packaging.
• Have a fire extinguisher ready and know how to use it.

How Home Insurance Handles Holiday Mishaps

If something goes wrong in the kitchen, here’s how your policy can step in:

1. Dwelling Coverage: If a cooking fire damages your kitchen — think burned cabinets, smoke damage, or melted appliances — dwelling coverage helps pay for repairs to the structure of your home.
2. Personal Property Coverage: If items such as cookware, decorations, or furniture are damaged in an accident, personal property coverage can help replace them.
3. Personal Liability Coverage: Holiday gatherings also mean more people in your home. If a guest is burned, slips on a spill, or is otherwise injured due to household negligence, your personal liability coverage can help cover medical bills or legal expenses.
4. Medical Payments Coverage: This coverage helps reimburse medical bills for guests injured on your property.

Why Prevention Matters

Even though your home insurance can help after an accident, avoiding the claim altogether is always the best route. Claims can lead to higher premiums, stress during repairs, and interruption of your home during the holidays.

Staying alert in the kitchen and practicing simple safety tips helps protect your home, your guests, and your celebration.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving is all about gratitude, connection, and, of course, great food. A little awareness in the kitchen helps keep the day joyful and accident-free. If you’re unsure how your policy covers cooking or holiday-related risks, this is a perfect time to reach out to your insurance advisor for a quick review.

Talk to an advisor today!