Heritage Insurance Holdings warns: Presidents' Day grill and cast‑iron sales raise home fire risk

Holiday bargain boom draws insurer attention

Heritage Insurance Holdings and other property insurers are monitoring a spike in home and outdoor cooking activity tied to Presidents’ Day promotions as retailers push sales on grills, cast‑iron cookware and tools. Lowe’s is promoting American‑made names such as Lodge and Craftsman with clear discounts that encourage backyard grilling and heavier use of stovetop and oven cookware, activity insurers say can raise the likelihood of accidental fires, smoke damage and third‑party liability claims.

Insurers note that grilled food and high‑heat searing increase ignition and grease‑flare risks, while frequent use of heavy cast‑iron pans and enamelware inside can change patterns of stove‑top and oven wear that sometimes lead to service calls or small property claims. Heritage Insurance Holdings, a specialty personal‑lines property insurer, is among companies that watch seasonal purchase trends because concentrated periods of increased appliance and equipment use can shift claims frequency and generate spikes in small residential losses tied to cooking and outdoor recreation.

The industry recommends straightforward mitigations that policyholders can adopt now: maintain and place grills well away from structures and combustible materials, ensure proper ventilation for indoor cooking, keep Class K and multipurpose fire extinguishers accessible, and follow manufacturers’ care instructions for cast‑iron and enamel products to limit rust or damage. Heritage and peers stress documenting purchases and following safety guidance so consumers preserve evidence if a claim arises and to reduce the chance of preventable loss during holiday shopping spikes.

Lowe’s promotions highlight U.S.‑made Lodge cast‑iron cookware and national brands

Lowe’s is advertising specific sale prices and percentages to help shoppers compare values: a Lodge enamel braiser is 33% off and advertised at $79.90 (regular $119.95), a Lodge cast‑iron skillet is $34.90 (about 19% off from $42.95), and a 6‑quart Lodge enamel Dutch oven is $89.90 (25% off from $119.95). The retailer also promotes up to 20% off Weber grills, discounts on L.L.Bean boots and nearly $100 off select Craftsman tool sets.

Lodge’s cookware, made in the United States, is marketed for durable heat retention, pre‑seasoned surfaces for outdoor use, and enamel options in multiple colors that resist rust and suit oven cooking. Retail detail and clear discounts drive consumer interest this holiday weekend, while insurers like Heritage flag the importance of safe use and coverage awareness as purchases translate into heightened home activity.