Thanksgiving Security Tips for Travel, Cooking, & Gatherings

Stay Safe This Thanksgiving: Security Tips for Travel, Cooking, and Gatherings

As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s a time to gather with loved ones, reflect on what we’re grateful for, and enjoy the holiday season.

At GPI Defense, we’re thankful for the opportunity to serve our community and help protect what matters most. While Thanksgiving is a time for celebration, it’s also one of the busiest times of the year for travel, cooking, and hosting gatherings… all of which come with potential safety risks.

Whether you’re hitting the road, preparing a feast, or welcoming family and friends into your home, prioritizing safety ensures that the holiday remains joyful and stress-free.

Here are practical tips to help you and your loved ones stay safe this Thanksgiving.

Travel Safety Tips

Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel periods of the year, with millions of people on the road or in the air. Staying safe during your journey is crucial.

Road Travel

• Plan Ahead – Check weather conditions and map your route before leaving. Allow extra time to avoid rushing in heavy traffic.
• Stay Alert – Fatigue and distractions are common during long drives. Take breaks, rotate drivers, and avoid using your phone while driving.
• Secure Your Vehicle – If stopping along the way, lock your car and store valuables out of sight to deter theft.

Air Travel

• Be Vigilant – Airports are crowded during the holidays, so keep an eye on your belongings and avoid leaving luggage unattended.
• Travel Light – Minimize carry-on items to make navigating security checkpoints and crowded terminals easier.
• Stay Informed – Monitor flight statuses and be prepared for delays by having a backup plan.

Home Safety While Cooking

Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without a delicious meal, but cooking fires are one of the leading causes of holiday emergencies.

Fire Prevention:

• Never Leave Cooking Unattended – Stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling, or boiling food. Set timers to remind yourself to check on dishes in the oven.
• Keep Flammable Items Away – Avoid placing dish towels, pot holders, or other flammable items near open flames or heat sources.
• Use Fryers Carefully – If deep frying a turkey, do it outdoors and follow manufacturer instructions to prevent accidents.

Child Safety in the Kitchen:

• Establish a “No-Kid Zone” – Keep children at least three feet away from hot surfaces and cooking areas.
• Secure Sharp Objects – Store knives and other sharp tools out of reach.
• Monitor Curious Little Ones – Use child-proofing measures if young children are helping in the kitchen.

Home Security During Gatherings

Hosting a Thanksgiving gathering? Make sure your home is safe and secure while entertaining guests.

Crowd Awareness:

• Secure Entry Points – Lock all doors and windows, especially if guests are coming and going frequently.
• Monitor Visitors – Keep an eye on who is entering your home. If hosting a large gathering, consider designating someone to assist with guest management.

Protecting Valuables:

• Limit Access to Private Areas – If certain rooms are off-limits, secure them to avoid accidental or intentional tampering with valuables.
• Store Valuables Safely – Keep important items, such as jewelry and electronics, locked away or out of sight during gatherings.

Bonus: Staying Safe with Black Friday Shopping

For many, Thanksgiving weekend includes Black Friday shopping, whether in-store or online. Staying vigilant can protect your personal safety and finances.

In-Store Shopping:

• Avoid Crowds – Shop during off-peak hours if possible to minimize risk in crowded areas.
• Stay Aware – Keep wallets and phones in secure, easily accessible locations to prevent pickpocketing.
• Park Wisely – Park in well-lit areas and avoid leaving purchases visible in your car.

Online Shopping:

• Use Secure Websites – Only shop on trusted websites with “https” in the URL.
• Monitor Your Accounts – Check your bank statements regularly for unauthorized transactions.
• Avoid Public Wi-Fi – Use a secure network when making online purchases to protect your personal information.

A Thankful, Safe Holiday

At GPI Defense, we believe that safety is a cornerstone of any celebration. Whether you’re traveling, cooking a feast, or enjoying time with family, these simple precautions can help keep your Thanksgiving secure and joyful.

We’re grateful for the trust our clients place in us to protect what matters most. From our team to yours, we wish you a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!