Harrisburg, Pa. — The Thanksgiving holiday is a wonderful way to spend time with friends and family over a delicious meal, but it sometimes comes at a cost, officials are warning.
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, the average number of reported residential building fires more than doubles on Thanksgiving day (2.3 times more fires) compared to every other day of the year. On average, 2,300 residential building fires were reported to U.S. fire departments from 2017-2019, causing an estimated annual average of five deaths, 25 injuries, and nearly $26 million in property damage and loss.
“We want all Pennsylvanians to have a safe holiday with loved ones and are reminding everyone today that safety should be a top priority,” said Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner Michael Humphreys. “In the event of an accident, homeowners insurance and renters insurance will only cover certain damages, and PID is here to help should you have any questions about, or problems with, your insurance. We urge you to use caution this holiday season when cooking to avoid potentially dangerous situations and prevent costly repairs. Have a Happy Thanksgiving, and please don’t drop the frozen turkey directly into the fryer!”
Homeowners insurance covers damage to home structures and personal belongings, plus liability protection if guests are injured. Homeowners remain responsible for deductibles, though. Similarly, a landlord’s insurance policy will cover damage to the building caused by renters, but it will probably not cover a renter’s personal belongings. Renters must have their own separate policy to protect against the loss or destruction of their possessions.
Renter’s insurance may also cover living expenses if renters are unable to live in their apartment because of a fire. Like homeowners insurance, renter’s insurance also provides liability protection for injury to guests.
“Just a few simple precautions can greatly affect your safety during this holiday season,” said State Fire Commissioner Tom Cook. “Before you fire up the oven, grill, or turkey fryer, make a plan. Ensure all smoke alarms are functioning and there is a fire extinguisher handy. Set regular timers or alarms on your phone to make sure not to lose track of timing. And if you’re using a turkey fryer, make sure to follow all manufacturer’s recommendations for use and cooking.”
More fire safety tips are available on the Office of the State Fire Commissioner’s website.
“Fire extinguishers are your first line of defense when dealing with a fire, and if applied properly, can quickly keep the fire from becoming out of control. Inspect your extinguishers regularly to ensure they are ready for service. Never use water on a grease or oil fire,” explained Linglestown Fire Company Chief Sean Harp. “An easy way to remember the steps to use a fire extinguisher is the acronym PASS – Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, Sweep back and forth. If the fire continues to grow, evacuate the building and call 911. Once outside, stay out and go to your meeting spot – never go back inside a building that has a fire.”
If a fire does occur, file a claim as soon as possible. Once an insurance company has been notified of a claim, the company has 10 business days to provide the necessary claim forms.
During a claim process, remember to:
- Keep a record of all written exchanges and phone conversations, including names and dates/times
- Ask questions
- Photograph and make lists of damaged items
- Save receipts for materials purchased for repairs
- Don’t throw away damaged property until the claims adjuster gives the green light
- Protect property from further damage by making temporary repairs until the insurance company advises about further action
- Don’t make permanent repairs until the property has been inspected and the insurance company has agreed on the cost of repairs. Making permanent repairs before this could result in a claim denial
Alice J. Roden started working for Trending Insurance News at the end of 2021. Alice grew up in Salt Lake City, UT. A writer with a vast insurance industry background Alice has help with several of the biggest insurance companies. Before joining Trending Insurance News, Alice briefly worked as a freelance journalist for several radio stations. She covers home, renters and other property insurance stories.