As Thanksgiving nears, chances are many of your residents are preparing for celebrations with friends and family. In this week’s #TuesdayTip, we discuss how to ensure every resident has a safe holiday season.

From fire prevention to general well-being, taking proactive measures ensures a Thanksgiving that’s not only enjoyable but also free from accidents.

Thanksgiving Fire Prevention

According to the National Safety Council, Thanksgiving is one of the peak days for home cooking fires. Follow these steps to minimize the risk of fire on multifamily properties:

• Stay In The Kitchen
  • Never leave cooking food unattended, especially when sautéing, baking, or broiling on the stove.
  • If you have to leave the kitchen, even for a short period, turn off the stove.
• Keep Flammable Items Away
  • Move anything that can catch fire—pot holders, towels, and curtains—away from the stove and other heat sources.
• Use Appliances Responsibly
  • Avoid using turkey fryers, as they pose a significant risk of fire and injury. Opt for safer cooking methods like roasting or baking.
  • Keep a lid nearby when cooking to smother small grease fires. Slide the lid over the pan and turn off the stove. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
• Children and Pets
  • Establish a “kid-free zone” of at least three feet around the stove and areas where hot food and drinks are prepared.
  • Keep pets away from cooking areas to prevent accidents.

General Holiday Safety

When discussing holiday safety with your residents this Thanksgiving, don’t forget these important reminders.

• Check Smoke Alarms
  • Test smoke alarms to ensure they are working correctly. Replace batteries if needed, and make sure every unit in the multifamily property is equipped with functioning smoke detectors.
• Candle Safety
  • Consider using flameless candles as a safer alternative to traditional candles. If using real candles, keep them away from flammable materials and never leave them unattended.
• Avoid Overloading Electrical Outlets
  • Decorations and additional cooking appliances can strain electrical outlets. Avoid overloading circuits to prevent electrical fires.

Winter is also here and temperatures are falling around the country. Have maintenance staff inspect the property for any potential heating issues before they arise. Also, encourage residents to contact maintenance staff if any issues do arise this holiday season. Finally, it is important to share these space heater reminders with residents! Follow these steps to ensure a safe, happy Thanksgiving on your property.

This Thanksgiving, prioritize the safety of your multifamily property by implementing these tips from the National Safety Council. From fire prevention measures in the kitchen to general safety precautions, a proactive approach ensures that residents can enjoy the holiday season without compromising their well-being. By fostering a culture of safety, property managers and residents alike contribute to a Thanksgiving filled with gratitude and peace of mind.