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Welcome back to our assisted living and memory care blog! We’re always grateful for your feedback—especially your appreciation for our safety-focused posts. Many of you have shared how helpful these insights are for home-based assisted living and memory care providers.

We know that some of you care daily for loved ones who are still—perhaps just barely—able to live independently. Yet, you may be noticing signs that raise concerns about how much longer that independence can safely continue. That’s an age-old family dilemma, one that calls for careful reflection. While we’re here to educate and support through this Winder-area assisted living and memory care blog, the ultimate decision depends on your family’s unique circumstances and resources.

Now, back to safety. Did you know that Thanksgiving Day ranks No. 1 for kitchen fires in the United States? If your independent-living mom insists on helping with the upcoming Thanksgiving dinner, here are some practical kitchen safety tips—useful not just for seniors, but for everyone in the family.

Do:

• Make sure smoke alarms are installed near the kitchen, bedrooms, and on every level of the home. Test the batteries and ensure all devices are fully operational.
• Keep a fire extinguisher in or near the kitchen. Contact your local EMS department for guidance on proper use and storage.
• Avoid wearing loose or dangling clothing while cooking.
• Keep an eye on simmering pots and baking dishes—unattended cooking is a leading cause of home fires.
• Keep children and pets out of cooking areas.
• Clean cooking areas regularly—grease buildup is both a health and fire hazard.
• Double-check that all appliances, ovens, and burners are turned off after cooking.

Don’t:

• Never throw water on a grease fire. Instead, smother the flames with a lid, another pot, or even a blanket. If it’s a small fire, baking soda can help.
• Don’t put a frozen turkey straight into the oven. Always thaw and dry it first.
• Never deep-fry a frozen turkey. The bird must be completely thawed—and frying should be done outdoors on a flat, non-flammable surface.

Fires aren’t the only unexpected hazards we might face during Thanksgiving. We’ll be back next week with more safety reminders to help you prepare for a worry-free holiday.

Finally, from all your friends here at Gateway Gardens Assisted Living and Memory Care in Winder, GA, we encourage you to get outside and enjoy the crisp, moderate fall weather—before Mother Nature reminds us that winter is just around the corner.