Thanksgiving Fire Risk: Spiking Holiday Numbers Prompt Safety Concerns

NEW YORK, NY – November 19, 2025

The Holiday Heat: A Rising Tide of Kitchen Fires

The aroma of roasted turkey and pumpkin pie is synonymous with Thanksgiving, but beneath the festive cheer lies a significant, and often overlooked, danger: cooking fires. U.S. consumer safety officials are issuing a timely warning as the holiday approaches, highlighting a dramatic spike in kitchen fires during this period. While the data predominantly focuses on the U.S., the risks and preventative measures are equally applicable for Canadian households, urging a heightened state of awareness as families gather to celebrate.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that cooking fires account for 45% of all residential fires annually, but on Thanksgiving Day, that number more than triples. Approximately 1,400 cooking fires occur on Thanksgiving – a staggering increase over the daily average. Experts attribute this surge to the hectic nature of the holiday, with multiple dishes being prepared simultaneously, increased distractions, and the presence of guests.

“The sheer volume of cooking activity on Thanksgiving creates a perfect storm for fires,” explains one anonymous fire safety expert. “People are often rushing, multitasking, and may not be paying close enough attention to what’s happening on the stovetop or in the oven.”

Beyond the Feast: The Financial and Human Cost

The impact of these fires extends far beyond property damage. The financial costs are substantial, encompassing repair bills, insurance claims, medical expenses, and potential business losses. While precise figures for Canada are difficult to isolate, U.S. data reveals that cooking fires result in hundreds of millions of dollars in property damage each year. However, the human cost is immeasurable. Fires can cause severe injuries, emotional trauma, and, tragically, loss of life.

Beyond the immediate damage, the ripple effects can be devastating. Families may be displaced from their homes, requiring temporary housing and assistance. Individuals may suffer long-term physical and emotional scars. “It’s not just about the material possessions,” says a representative from an anonymous victims support group. “These fires shatter lives and leave lasting emotional wounds.”

The increasing costs of insurance claims due to such incidents also impact all homeowners. While comprehensive insurance can cover the financial losses, premiums are rising due to the frequency and severity of cooking fires.

Turkey Fryers and Other Holiday Hazards

While various cooking methods contribute to the increase in fires, certain practices pose particularly high risks. Turkey fryers, especially those using large volumes of oil, are notorious for causing severe burns and fires. The high temperature of the oil combined with the potential for spills or explosions creates a dangerous situation. The CPSC strongly discourages the use of oil-based turkey fryers, recommending alternative cooking methods.

“The risks associated with turkey fryers are simply too high,” says an anonymous safety official. “We’ve seen far too many devastating injuries and fires caused by these devices.”

Other common hazards include unattended cooking, flammable materials near the stovetop, and grease fires. Improper use of ovens and stovetops, as well as overloaded electrical circuits, can also contribute to the risk. The combination of distractions and multiple cooking operations increases the likelihood of accidents.

Beyond the direct risks, smoke inhalation is a major concern in residential fires. Working smoke alarms are vital for early detection, providing occupants with crucial time to escape and call for help. Experts emphasize the importance of having smoke alarms on every level of the home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas. Regular testing and maintenance are also essential to ensure their proper functioning.

Regular maintenance checks, replacing old batteries, and ensuring the alarm's sensors are clean are essential steps to ensure the device is functioning optimally.

“Smoke alarms are the first line of defense against fire,” says a representative from a fire safety advocacy group. “They provide invaluable warning and can mean the difference between life and death.”

In addition to smoke alarms, having a fire extinguisher readily accessible in the kitchen is also highly recommended. Knowing how to use it properly can help contain a small fire before it spreads. However, it’s important to remember that a fire extinguisher is not a substitute for calling 911.