The holidays bring warmth, joy, and a fair share of hazards—whether it’s a mischievous child setting traps or real-life risks like turkey frying mishaps or Christmas tree fires. Inspired by Home Alone, here’s how you can stay safe, protect your family, and enjoy a fun-filled holiday season.


1. Avoid a Turkey Fryer Fiasco

Deep-fried turkey may be a holiday favorite, but it’s also a leading cause of holiday accidents. Take a page from Kevin’s playbook: plan ahead!

• Use fryers outdoors—never in the garage or near the house.
• Thaw completely before frying to avoid dangerous oil splatters.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it (see below).
• Set up your fryer on a level surface, away from kids and pets.




2. How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Kevin might have had paint cans, but you need something more

practical. In case of a fire:

• Remember PASS:
- Pull the pin.
- Aim at the base of the fire.
- Squeeze the handle.
- Sweep side to side.
• Keep extinguishers easily accessible in the kitchen, near fireplaces, and next to outdoor fryers. Practice using one to ensure you’re ready in an emergency.


3. Christmas Tree Safety

Kevin’s Christmas tree may have been the centerpiece of his holiday antics, but in real life, it can pose a serious fire hazard if not properly cared for.

• Keep it watered: A dry tree can ignite in seconds. Check water levels daily.
• Inspect lights: Replace any frayed or damaged wires.
• Unplug at night: Avoid keeping lights on when unattended. For a visual reminder, think of a tree catching fire in the time it took Kevin to rig his front door—fast and devastating.


4. Pet-Safe Holidays

Even Buzz’s tarantula had boundaries. Keep your furry friends safe this season by avoiding:

• Chocolate: Toxic to cats and dogs.
• Bones: Turkey bones splinter easily and can be harmful.
• Holiday plants: Poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly can cause an upset stomach or worse. Instead, treat pets with plain, cooked meats or vet-approved snacks.


5. Parks and Rec Fun (and Safety!)

The City of Knoxville’s parks are the perfect setting for outdoor holiday fun! Whether it’s sledding or strolling through decorated trails with family and friends, remember:

• Stay visible: Wear reflective gear during evening outings.
• Leash up: Protect pets from unfamiliar hazards, like discarded food or decorations.
• Leave no trace: Like Kevin cleaning up his mess (well, sort of), pack out everything you bring in to keep parks safe for everyone.


Home for the Holidays

This year, let’s take Kevin’s ingenuity and mix it with a hefty dose of preparation. With thoughtful planning, you can protect your home, family, pets, and even your turkey from holiday hazards. For more tips and resources, visit Knoxville Parks and Recreation or Knoxville Fire Department. Together, we’ll make sure your holidays are filled with joy—not booby traps or unexpected disasters.

Happy Holidays from your City of Knoxville Communications Department!