For many families, Thanksgiving means a big meal and lots of love. Sadly, Thanksgiving can also mean car accidents, fires, and serious injuries. While you celebrate with your loved ones, be sure to keep safety in mind. This year, you may also have to take extra precautions to slow the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).
Whether you are behind the wheel, in the kitchen, or attending a small gathering, we have some tips and tricks that may help you have a safer holiday.
Behind the Wheel
Thanksgiving weekend can be a dangerous time to drive. Many Americans take road trips, and “Blackout Wednesday” (the Wednesday before Thanksgiving) is one of the biggest drinking days of the year. Drivers who don’t know where they’re going may not be driving as carefully as normal and those who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol are extremely dangerous. When you’re behind the wheel, make sure you’re focused, sober (even one drink is too many to drive), and driving defensively.
If you see someone driving erratically, steer clear of them, and if you suspect they may be intoxicated, call 911 as soon as it is safe to do so. Your call could save lives.
In the Kitchen
House fires occur most often during the Thanksgiving holiday, and they are usually the result of unattended cooking. If you have food on the stove, make sure you are in the kitchen. Turn the stove off if you need to step out, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Although turkeys require a long time in the oven, you should never leave your home while your oven is on. Instead, stay home while your turkey cooks and check on it frequently. Per the National Fire Protection Association’s recommendation, do not prepare your bird in a turkey fryer.
You should also be extremely careful with hot foods and liquids and keep knives out of the reach of children. If you have young guests, encourage them to stay out of the kitchen and ensure they stay at least 3 feet away from the stove at all times. Provide fun activities like books, puzzles, and games in another room to keep the little ones occupied.
Be extra careful when carrying hot food, as well. Keep your floor clean and free of obstacles, like toys, coats, and bags. Before you start cooking, you should also double-check that your fire alarm is working – you can do this b pressing the “test” button on your alarm.
While Gathering
2020 has been an unusual year, and Thanksgiving might look a little different, as well. The safest way to celebrate is with the members of your household, but if you do attend a small gathering, take the following steps to reduce the spread of COVID-19:
- Gather outside or in a well-ventilated space
- Bring your own food, drinks, plates, cups, and utensil
- Wear a mask whenever you are not eating or drinking
- Stay 6 feet away from people who don’t live with you
- Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol
- Stay out of the kitchen if you are not the one cooking
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urges Americans to celebrate virtually and avoid gathering with people who are at higher risk of getting very sick. Before gathering, consider how you can protect yourself and others. One added bonus of celebrating at home is that you not only reduce the spread of COVID-19, but you also reduce the risk of car crashes and other accidents.
Happy Thanksgiving From Mathias Raphael PLLC Accident & Injury Lawyers
At Mathias Raphael PLLC Accident & Injury Lawyers, our Dallas injury lawyers want you to celebrate and stay safe. Only you can decide what’s best for you and your family this year.
As always, if you are harmed by a drunk driver or any other negligent party, please do not hesitate to call us at (214) 739-0100 or contact us online to discuss your rights and legal options during a free case evaluation.