What are you thankful for? Is it family? Unnecessary amounts of eating? Football? Or is it all of the above? Or least it appears to be that way based on the holiday of Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude and being with family and friends. It is also a time of stressful situations and high tension amongst distant relatives.

Because of this I thought it would be important to put out some safety tips to help everyone get through the big day.

Thanksgiving Safety Tips

Tip # 1: Be aware of your surroundings

Usually every year I end up cooking for my entire family. And what have I learned from that experience. The kitchen is a dangerous place to be. Especially when there are too many people in the kitchen at the same time. This is just waiting for accidents to happen. So pay attention to what is going on around you.

Tip # 2: Protect yourself at all times

I love my mother but using knives while cooking is not her strong suit. So I always like to remind everyone, think before you act. Put yourself in a position to protect yourself while cooking. Do one task at a time and slowdown. Use the potholder and watch your finger while chopping. No one wants to go to the hospital on the big day for second degree burn and missing fingers

Tip # 3: Use verbal Jiu Jitsu

I have a large family with lots of options and most of the time its survival of the loudest. Now I understand this about my family. So there are just some topics that you avoid…words are your first line of self-defense. Sometimes it’s better just to smile and nod. It’s better than putting yourself in a bad situation.

Tip # 4: Use Actual Jiu Jitsu

Now I know tons of different martial arts. But there is a time and a place for everything. How does one diffuse a situation without actually hurting anyone in his or her family? BJJ is perfect for that. Headlocks bear hugs, and wrist grab escapes are no issue for you. And if someone gets a little out of hand you can always do the Mata Leo (rear naked choke.) Remember control before pain compliance.

Tip # 5: Throat Punch

I mostly did this so I could throat punch Paul. Or you could just throw beer on the family member you just choked out and they will just think they over indulged.

Enjoy your Thanksgiving and remember Always Throat Punch Responsibly!