How to Stay Fire-Safe This Thanksgiving: Sullivan County Fire Coordinator Shares Essential Tips

Thanksgiving is one of the biggest cooking days of the year—and one of the most dangerous. Between crowded kitchens, deep-fried turkeys, candles, fireplaces, and heavy holiday travel, the risk of fires and accidents spikes heading into the holiday weekend.

To help keep families safe, Radio Catskill’s Patricio Robayo spoke with John Hauschild, Sullivan County’s Deputy Commissioner of Public Safety and Fire Coordinator. He shared practical tips to help avoid common Thanksgiving hazards, from deep-frying disasters to kitchen fires and dangerous late-night drives.

Deep-Frying a Turkey? Be Careful. Very Careful.

Hauschild says deep-fried turkeys may taste amazing, but they’re one of the top causes of holiday fires.

The biggest danger? Hot oil overflowing when the turkey is lowered in.

“People put too much grease in the pot, and when they drop the turkey in, it spills over and bursts into flames,” Hauschild explains.

That becomes especially dangerous when fryers are used in garages, on decks, or near houses, where flames can quickly spread.

His advice:

Always deep fry outdoors, on level ground, far away from buildings.

Make sure the turkey is fully thawed and dry before cooking.

Lower it into the oil slowly to avoid splashing and burns.

“And remember,” he says, “you can get burned yourself if you’re not careful.”

Heavy Holiday Travel: Slow Down and Stay Sober

Thanksgiving is consistently one of the busiest travel days of the year, and Hauschild urges drivers to take it seriously.

“It’s a high-volume traffic day. People are on the road visiting family, and they need to obey the speed limit and be cautious,” he says.

He also warns that drinking with family can lead to risky nighttime drives.

Add unpredictable late-November weather—rain, ice, even early snow—and the risk increases.

Hauschild’s message is simple:
Enjoy yourself, but be responsible. A split second is all it takes for something to go wrong.

Candles and Decorations: Simple Traditions, Serious Risks

Candles are a holiday favorite, but they’re also a common cause of house fires.

Hauschild says to keep candles far away from anything that can burn:

Curtains

Drapes

Furniture

Holiday decorations

And never leave them burning unattended.

“Make sure the candles are out before you go to bed,” he says.

Food Safety: Don’t Undercook the Turkey

While not a traditional fire call, food safety issues—like improperly cooked turkey—come up often during the holiday.

“The packaging tells you exactly what temperature the turkey must reach,” Hauschild says.

Undercooked turkey can lead to foodborne illness, and handling raw poultry improperly can contaminate surfaces. He also jokes about another Thanksgiving hazard:

“And don’t overeat—though the plates always feel too small on Thanksgiving!”

If Something Goes Wrong, Call 911 First

If a fire starts or something feels out of control, Hauschild says the first step is always the same:

“Always call 911.”

The fire department would much rather arrive early to something small than arrive too late to something big.

“Make sure everyone is safe before trying to put out a fire yourself,” he adds. “Grease fires, kitchen fires—they can escalate quickly.”

Holiday Heating Hazards: Chimneys and Space Heaters

Thanksgiving weekend also brings cold weather and the first big use of fireplaces and space heaters.

Hauschild says chimney fires are another common call this time of year.

“People fire up their stoves and fireplaces for the season,” he notes. “Make sure your chimney is cleaned.”

For space heaters:

Keep them 3–4 feet from anything combustible

Never leave them unattended

Plug them directly into the wall—not an extension cord

A Final Message from the Fire Coordinator

As families gather, cook, travel, and celebrate, Hauschild hopes everyone enjoys the holiday safely.

“I wish everybody a happy and safe Thanksgiving. Enjoy it.”