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Thanksgiving Home Safety Checklist: 10 Things Every Homeowner Should Do Before the Holidays

ByAlan

Thanksgiving Home Safety Checklist: 10 Things Every Homeowner Should Do Before the Holidays

Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and gratitude — but it’s also one of the highest-risk days of the year for home fires, kitchen accidents, and unexpected breakdowns. As a home inspector serving Columbia and Jefferson City, I see many issues that can be prevented with just a little preparation.

To help you enjoy a safe and stress-free holiday season, here are 10 simple Thanksgiving home safety tips every homeowner should take care of before hosting family and friends.

1. Test Your Smoke Alarms & CO Detectors

Thanksgiving has more kitchen fires than any other day of the year.

  • Test all smoke alarms
  • Replace weak batteries
  • Check CO detectors

2. Clear the Range Hood & Stove Area

Grease buildup can ignite quickly.

  • Clean range hood filters
  • Wipe down stovetop
  • Keep towels and plastic away from burners

3. Give Your Oven & Stove a Quick Check

Don’t run the self-clean cycle right before Thanksgiving — it can cause overheating.

4. Check Your Furnace or Heating System

  • Replace furnace filter
  • Make sure vents aren’t blocked
  • Listen for unusual noises

5. Prep the Guest Bathroom

  • Run water in rarely used sinks
  • Check drains
  • Inspect for leaks under the sink
  • Test the toilet for running/filling issues

6. Check the Water Heater

Set temperature to about 120°F.

7. Clean the Dryer Vent

  • Clear lint trap
  • Clean vent duct annually
  • Ensure external vent flap opens properly

8. Check Exterior Walkways

  • Clear leaves
  • Check lighting
  • Salt frost or slick spots

9. Keep Space Heaters Safe

  • Maintain 3 feet of clearance
  • Never use extension cords
  • Turn off before sleep

10. Have a Fire Extinguisher Ready

An ABC or K-rated extinguisher is best for kitchens.

Thanksgiving should be a time of peace and connection — not emergency repairs. If you want your home evaluated before the holidays or winter season, AW Inspections is here to help.

AW Inspections, LLC
Serving Columbia, Jefferson City, and surrounding areas
Phone: 618-483-3924
Website: https://awinspectionsllc.com

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