Avoid These 6 Common Thanksgiving Day Home Disasters

Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and gratitude — not chaos, smoke alarms, or plumbing problems! While it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the day, a few simple precautions can help you steer clear of the most common Thanksgiving home disasters.

Here’s what to watch out for so your celebration stays smooth and stress-free.

1. Kitchen Fires

It’s no surprise that Thanksgiving is the #1 day of the year for home cooking fires.
With multiple dishes going at once, it’s easy to forget a burner or leave something too close to the heat.

Tip:

• Keep anything flammable — oven mitts, towels, food packaging — away from stovetops.
• Never leave the kitchen unattended while cooking.
• If you’re frying a turkey, do it outside and far from your home or deck.

2. Clogged Drains

Your kitchen sink and garbage disposal will be working overtime, but they can only handle so much.

Tip:

• Avoid putting grease, bones, potato peels, or fibrous foods down the drain.
• Run cold water for a few seconds after each use to keep things flowing.
• If you notice slow drainage, address it before the big day.

3. Oven Overload

Trying to cook a turkey, pies, and side dishes all at once can lead to uneven cooking or a blown fuse.

Tip:

• Test your oven a few days before Thanksgiving to make sure it heats evenly.
• Use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Stagger cooking times — prep some dishes in advance or use countertop appliances like a slow cooker or air fryer.

4. Heating System Hiccups

When the first big family gathering of the season meets chilly weather, heating systems often get their first real workout — and sometimes, they fail.

Tip:

• Change your HVAC filter and test your heat before guests arrive.
• Keep vents clear of furniture or decor.
• If you have a home warranty, double-check your coverage before the cold hits!

5. Power Outages

Between cooking, decorations, and guests charging devices, your home’s electrical load can spike.

Tip:

• Avoid overloading circuits with too many kitchen gadgets or extension cords.
• Keep flashlights and spare batteries handy just in case.
• Use surge protectors for sensitive electronics.

6. Slips, Trips, and Falls

With guests coming and going — sometimes in wet or muddy shoes — entryways and hallways can get slippery fast.

Tip:

• Keep doormats inside and outside each entrance.
• Clear walkways of clutter or cords.
• Make sure outdoor paths are well-lit for evening arrivals.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving should be about gratitude, laughter, and great food — not emergency repairs. By planning ahead and keeping safety in mind, you’ll ensure your home (and your holiday) runs smoothly from appetizers to dessert.

Here’s to a warm, worry-free Thanksgiving filled with good company and good memories!