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Families across the country are preparing plans for Thanksgiving Day celebrations, but it’s important to remember that safety should remain a top priority. More than 36,000 people in the U.S. were treated for injuries at the emergency room on Thanksgiving Day in 2016.
While gatherings may be smaller than in previous years due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, you can bet that the same dangers will lurk in the most innocuous places. Here are some statistics you should know in order to take precautions to keep your family safe.
BURNS AND FIRES
- More than 4,000 home fires occur every Thanksgiving due to electrical malfunctions and open flames.
- There are three times more cooking-related home fires on Thanksgiving Day than average.
- Two-thirds of cooking fires begin with the ignition of food, such as oil, fat, or grease.
- Here are some ways that you can prevent fires and burns at your residence during the holidays:
- Install fire alarms in every room.
- Keep a close watch on flames.
- Don’t use fryers on wood decks.
- Have a kid-free zone.
- Heat oil slowly; it ignites quickly.
- Keep a fire extinguisher.
CAR CRASHES
- Thanksgiving Day is the deadliest holiday for car accidents.
- The top three causes of Thanksgiving holiday car accidents include:
- Impaired Driving. About 35% of Thanksgiving holiday traffic fatalities involve a drunk driver.
- Congested Roads. There are more people traveling on the road, which can lead to rear-end accidents and road rage.
- Drowsy Driving. Long travels and holiday road trips can lead to more fatigued drivers on the road.
If you or a loved one is injured in an accident this holiday season, learn more about your legal options by contacting Huffman & Huffman at (757) 599-6050. We offer free, no-obligation consultations.
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