A family enjoys Thanksgiving dinner.

Just in time for the holiday, I’m happy to share a guest post by Amy Patterson.

Thanksgiving is synonymous with family and food. It is the season of holiday feasts. Usually every person in the house is involved in the holiday preparations, including the little ones. While this may be a festive time, it can also turn dangerous. Safety in the home is especially important during this time, since there are many people and activities going on around you. Distractions can lead to disaster. Being prepared and aware is essential.

The kitchen is the heart of the house

Safety in the kitchen is more important than in any other place in the house. This is because there are many unseen hazards that can lead to a hazardous results. Hot pans, boiling water, and other food preparation equipment can cause injuries if not attended to properly. More serious injuries can also happen here, such as kitchen fires.

Because of this, everyone should follow some basic safety measures while preparing for Thanksgiving gatherings.

•  Those cooking should not wear dangling sleeves and loose clothes. That type of clothing can easily catch on fire.
• Always turn off the gas/stove when you are going out of the kitchen. Always stay in the kitchen when you are boiling, frying or grilling food. Remain in the house while cooking and check food regularly.
• Keep items away from the gas which can catch fire such as oven mitts, paper and plastic items, wooden utensils, food packaging, curtains, and towels.
• Keep your children away from the kitchen.
• Keep a fire extinguisher at your house so that you can access it quickly if required.
• Always check the regulator of gas before going to sleep. Make sure that all appliances are turned off.
• Install smoke alarms that can alert you if anything catches fire.
• Keep knives and sharp or hot objects out of the reach of children.

Having friends and family over for the holidays

Prepare your house so that is it is ready to welcome your friends and family. Make everyone feel at home by creating a nice atmosphere. A clean and decluttered home is essential in making guests feel comfortable, as well as helping to prevent injuries caused by a trip and fall accident. Make sure rugs are properly placed, and that floors are not slippery if there is rain. Be sure to prepare a list that can help you remember the tasks that need to be done ahead of time. This can be a hectic time if you are unprepared. Organization and preparation ahead of time can help you stay focused on the day of the festivities, thus helping to avoid distractions that can lead to mishaps. If you are creating a festive entry for your house, or using lights and garland as decoration, be sure that they are not placed in a manner near flammable objects or in the path of young children. Avoid candles and opt for battery operated lighting. Help keep things out of the way by providing plenty of options for your guests to hang and store personal items. Purchase a coat rack as well as some storage baskets or bins to collect gloves, scarves and hats. You can also arrange a basket for the storage of car keys. By keeping these safety tips in mind, you can help to avoid a potential disaster and focus on enjoying this time with friends and loved ones.

Amy Patterson is an avid reader on trending topics and a writer in her spare time. On the beautiful coast of North Carolina you will usually find her catching up on the latest news with locals or on the beach. She loves to write pieces on health, fitness, and wellness, but often writes about families and safety.