Thanksgiving Preparedness Tips

From the Maryland Emergency Preparedness Network

Thanksgiving is a time to gather, reflect, and create joyful memories with loved ones. With a little preparation, we can ensure that safety concerns stay off your plate, leaving more room for what matters most.

Here’s how to make your holiday stress-free:

1. Fire Safety: Prevent Holiday Hazards

• Stay in the Kitchen: Keep an eye on the stove and oven while cooking.
• Keep Combustibles Away: Maintain a 3-foot zone around cooking equipment.
• Test Smoke Alarms: Ensure alarms are working and have fresh batteries.

Resource: Thanksgiving Fire Safety Tip sheet from NFPA

2. Food Safety: Serve Joy, Not Germs

• Thaw Safely: Thaw your turkey in the fridge (24 hours per 4-5 pounds), not on the counter.
• Cook Thoroughly: Ensure turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Store Leftovers: Refrigerate perishable food within 2 hours to prevent foodborne illness.

Resource: Thanksgiving Food Safety Tips from the USDA

Need to Talk Turkey?: Call the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Meat and Poultry Hotline is available to answer questions about meat, poultry, and egg products at 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854):

3. Infection Control: Keep Loved Ones Healthy

• Encourage Handwashing: Make handwashing easy and accessible before meals and after touching shared items.
• Sanitize Surfaces: Regularly disinfect high-touch areas like counters, doorknobs, and tables.
• Stay Home When Sick: Kindly ask guests to stay home if they feel unwell or show any symptoms of illness.
• Ventilate the Space: Open windows or use air purifiers to improve air circulation in your home.

Resource: Article Avoid Illness During the Holidays

4. Travel Safety: Arrive Safely

• Prepare Your Vehicle: Check tire pressure, fluids, and emergency supplies before hitting the road.
• Stay Alert: Avoid distractions like texting while driving.
• Plan Ahead: Expect delays and leave early to reduce stress.

Resource: Travel Tips for Thanksgiving from MDEM

5. General Home Safety: Keep Gatherings Safe

• Ensure Accessibility: Clear walkways in and outside the gathering space to create a safe, welcoming space for guests of all ages and abilities.

Resource: Accessible Holidays Tips

6. Pet Safety: Protect Your Furry Friends

• Watch What They Eat: Avoid sharing turkey bones, chocolate, or fatty foods that can harm pets.
• Create a Safe Space: Provide a quiet spot for pets to retreat from the commotion.
• Secure Decorations: Keep candles, cords, and small decorations out of reach.

Resource: Thanksgiving Safety Tips from the ASPCA

Shared by Lori Peck, BS, MT, Public Health Emergency Planner

See also: Garrett County Health Department Offers Essential Food Safety Tips for Thanksgiving