Before Thanksgiving, test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, stay near the kitchen while cooking, check the heating system, clear walking areas, and prevent plumbing problems. Complete these checks early so you have time to handle concerns before guests arrive.
Keep the Kitchen Safe
Stay nearby while food is cooking, turn pot handles toward the back of the stove, and keep towels, packaging, children, and pets away from hot appliances. Use turkey fryers outdoors on a flat surface away from buildings and anything that can burn. Make sure the turkey is fully thawed and dry, and never leave the fryer unattended.
Test Alarms and Heating Equipment
Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms on every floor and near sleeping areas. Replace weak batteries before guests arrive. Keep furniture, blankets, and decorations away from fireplaces, furnaces, and space heaters. Contact an HVAC professional if the heating system makes unusual sounds, produces strange odors, or does not heat the home evenly.
Clear Walking Areas
Wet leaves, frost, and snow can make Muncie walkways slippery. Clear outdoor steps, secure loose handrails, and check exterior lighting. Keep extension cords away from walking paths, and remove shoes, bags, toys, and loose rugs from halls and stairs. Furniture and decorations should not block exits.
Prevent Plumbing Problems
Do not put grease, oil, coffee grounds, bones, or large food scraps down the drain. Let grease cool in a container before throwing it away. Check under sinks and around toilets for leaks. Clear leaves from gutters and make sure downspouts carry water away from the foundation.
Prepare for Guests
Check guest areas for exposed cords, overloaded outlets, loose flooring, unstable furniture, and poor lighting. Keep candles away from anything that can burn, or use battery-powered candles. Show overnight guests where the exits, bathrooms, light switches, and fire extinguisher are located. Store medicine, cleaning products, and tools where children cannot reach them.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I complete these home checks?
Complete them a few days before Thanksgiving so you have time to replace batteries, fix small problems, or contact a professional.
Where should smoke and carbon monoxide alarms be installed?
Smoke alarms should be installed on every floor, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas. Install carbon monoxide alarms according to the manufacturer’s directions and local requirements.
Should I check my gutters before Thanksgiving?
Yes. Remove fallen leaves and make sure downspouts direct water away from the foundation before late-fall rain or freezing temperatures arrive.
What should overnight guests know?
Show guests the exits, bathrooms, light switches, and fire extinguisher. Keep halls and stairs clear during their stay.
Is a holiday safety check the same as a home inspection?
No. A holiday check focuses on immediate household concerns. A home inspection provides a broader review of the visible and accessible parts of the property.
Schedule a Home Inspection in Muncie
Five Star Home Inspection Group provides residential inspections in Muncie and throughout East Central Indiana. Call 765-215-2101 to schedule an inspection.