As we get ready for Thanksgiving, kitchens across New York are about to turn into the busiest spot in the house. With all that cooking, it’s no surprise that many people are worried about fires and other home emergencies.

A new report from BPG Inspections found that more than 7 in 10 Americans are anxious about something going wrong at home, and almost 65 percent say house fires are the disaster they fear the most.

Why So Many Families Feel Stressed

One of the biggest reasons people feel uneasy is the financial hit that comes with a home emergency. Insurance costs keep climbing, and repairs can get expensive fast. About 70 percent of people stress over how much a repair might cost, and 67 percent admit they skip fixing their home just to save money.

Most Americans Are Not Fully Prepared

Even though house fires are the biggest worry, many people aren’t as prepared as they think. BPG’s report found that over 80 percent do not have a fire escape plan, 35 percent don’t check their smoke alarms, and the three most common emergencies in the United States are power outages, HVAC failures, and fires.

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What You Can Do Before the Holiday Rush

With Thanksgiving almost here, a little preparation can go a long way. Make sure your smoke alarms work. Talk to your family about how to get out of the house safely in an emergency. Keep an eye on the stove and never leave cooking food unattended. These are small steps, but they can make a huge difference.

Peace of Mind Matters

The stress and inconvenience of a home disaster are only half the battle. The repairs afterward can drain both your wallet and your time. Taking a few minutes now to prepare can help you enjoy the holiday without that extra worry hanging over your head.

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