Springfield, Ill. – Winter’s chill drives Illinois residents to turn up the heat, but it also brings increased risks of carbon monoxide (CO) incidents and home fires. The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) urges families to take preventative measures to stay safe.
Carbon monoxide is a silent threat—colorless, odorless, and only detectable with CO alarms. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), heating equipment is a leading cause of home fire deaths, with space heaters responsible for most fatalities. Nearly half of all home heating fires occur in December, January, and February.
Illinois State Fire Marshal James A. Rivera emphasized, “We’ve already seen tragedies this winter. Working CO detectors and smoke alarms are critical for your family’s safety.”
In 2024, Illinois fire departments responded to 23,158 carbon monoxide calls, identifying leaks in over 8,000 locations, according to the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS). Symptoms of CO poisoning, including headaches and nausea, resemble the flu.
Residents are advised to install alarms on each floor, keep heating equipment clear of flammable materials, and test alarms monthly. Proper maintenance, professional inspections, and safe heating practices can significantly reduce risks.
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