Thanksgiving may look different than last year, when many families opted to stay home or shared virtual dinners with relatives and friends. As more people are vaccinated, families may find it safe to get together for one of the most festive holidays of the year.
But with that comes the risk of increased injuries on Thanksgiving day. Whether it is inexperience from cooking a large dinner for the first time or traveling to see your loved ones, there are risks to consider during the holiday.
Of course, the best way to address injuries during Thanksgiving is prevention; however, if an injury occurs, whether minor or severe, then see an urgent care doctor as soon as possible.
You can even see a doctor via telemedicine urgent care if you are unsure if you need to be seen in person.
In this article we will look at Thanksgiving day-related injuries and what you can do to prevent hazards at home.
Fire and burn-related injuries are the most common accidents, occurring more on Thanksgiving than on any other day of the year. In 2018, fire departments in the United States responded to approximately 1,630 home fires on Thanksgiving.
The most common cause of a fire on Thanksgiving day is the turkey fryer, leading to $15 million in property damage every year. Turkey fryer accidents are caused by inattention, not following fryer instructions, or the influence of alcohol. And where there are risks of fires, there are also risks for burns.
By following prevention tips such as reading instructions, paying attention, and limiting alcohol consumption, many fires and burns can be prevented. Try to pay attention and be fully present when cooking.
Food poisoning is another common but preventable accident on Thanksgiving. Food poisoning is the most common contributor to food being left on the counter or the table for too long but then consumed. If food is left out too long, bacteria can grow to make it unsafe to eat. This is also true if the food is heated up to be eaten at a later time.
Turkey and other popular thanksgiving food may also not be adequately cooked, especially if you are an inexperienced chef. Turkeys can require extra attention and also must be appropriately thawed before it is placed in the oven. Always follow cooking instructions and allow the time for it to be cooked safely.
Distractions, alcohol consumption, and inexperience can all contribute to an increased risk of food poisoning. It is essential to attend and manage everything you are cooking, so it is cooked properly. Also, do not leave it out for longer than recommended, and store leftovers properly.
Whether carving a turkey or chopping potatoes to mash, there is a risk of knife wounds if you are not paying attention. Did you know that one of the best ways to avoid a severe knife wound is to keep your knives sharp?
Dull knives can slip when cutting food which can lead to more injuries. Another important tip is always to cut away from your palm. If you do cut yourself, be sure to wash it well with anti-biotic soap and properly bandage the cut. See an urgent care doctor for deep cuts that can not be managed by bandaging at home.
Thanksgiving is one of the most popular days to travel of the year. Believe it or not, Thanksgiving is the deadliest holiday when it comes to travel. Contributing to this are the number of drivers on the road, speeding, drinking and driving, and weather conditions.
What steps can you take to avoid accidents when travelling this Thanksgiving?
So don't' rush, take your time, avoid alcohol, and do not travel if weather factors may put you at risk for an accident.
Urgent Care of the Palm Beaches will be there for you on Thanksgiving day if you need attention for an illness or injury. Not only do we offer telemedicine and scheduled appointments, but also walk-in options if you need immediate help on a holiday.
If you need a rapid covid test before you see your loved ones this Thanksgiving, then visit us for COVID-19 testing in Palm Beach.
Our offices are open seven days a week and have several offices for your convenience:
No matter the day or time of year, our urgent care centers are here for you and your family! Let us wish you a safe and healthy Thanksgiving.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health
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