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At Primary Residential Mortgage, Inc., we believe Thanksgiving should be a day you can enjoy with loved ones, and we want your holiday to go smoothly.
We’ve gathered a few tips to help make sure your holiday is as safe and stress-free as possible.
Safety Tips for Hosts
- Make sure the walkway is clear for guests—fall leaves, snow, etc., can be slippery.
- Make sure smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are working.
- Always stay in the kitchen when using the stove top.
- Avoid wearing loose-fitting clothing when cooking.
- Don’t leave the house if you’ve got something in the oven (even if it will be there for hours).
- Get a fire extinguisher for your kitchen.
- Keep things well ventilated while cooking.
- Keep raw meat away from produce.
- Put leftovers away quickly.
- Make sure knives and other dangerous objects can’t be reached by children.
- Limit your use of candles as décor.
- Be careful if you’re sharing food with pets and make sure there are no bones in the meat.
Safety Tips for Travelers
- Put your lights on a timer so your home looks occupied.
- Double check your windows and doors to be sure they’re locked.
- Consider investing in a security camera to discourage burglary or vandalism.
- Travel early if possible; holiday traffic can be dangerous.
- Always make sure everyone in your car is buckled up.
- Make sure your vehicle is prepared for inclement weather. (Check your breaks, tires, windshield wipers and defroster.)
- Take hand sanitizer and wipes with you when traveling on a plane or in crowded areas.
- Never drive while impaired, and don’t use your cell phone while driving.
More Tips to Make the Holiday Easier
- Ask guests about allergies and dietary restrictions before you plan your menu.
- Plan your meal ahead of time so you can be sure you have everything you need.
- Clean out your refrigerator ahead of time so there’s room for Thanksgiving ingredients.
- Read the recipes ahead of time so you can be sure you have all the tools you need
- Keep decorations simple. Consider seasonal plants like pumpkins or gourds.
- Don’t be afraid to delegate and ask guests to contribute. Have them bring things like desserts, homemade rolls, veggies and other food that doesn’t need to be served hot.
- Cook in square and rectangular pans to maximize storage space.
- Free up space in your kitchen by cooking some things outside on the grill if weather is nice.
- Soak pots and pans if you can’t wash them immediately so they’re easier to clean later.