Springfield, IL – As Thanksgiving approaches, Illinois fire officials are reminding residents to stay cautious in the kitchen — the leading setting for home fires and fire-related injuries during the holidays.
According to the Illinois State Fire Marshal’s Office, cooking remains the top cause of home fires statewide, with incidents peaking during Thanksgiving week. Officials are urging residents to take extra precautions as families prepare large meals and spend more time around the stove.
“Never leave food unattended while cooking,” the office advised in a safety alert this week. “A few minutes of distraction can quickly turn into a dangerous fire.”
Fire officials recommend several steps to reduce the risk of kitchen fires:
• Stay in the kitchen whenever food is cooking.
• Keep flammable items like oven mitts, paper towels, and dishcloths away from burners.
• Turn pot handles inward to prevent accidental spills and burns.
• Use a timer to remind yourself when food is ready.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to operate it safely.
The reminder comes as more than 1,000 home cooking fires are reported nationwide on Thanksgiving Day each year, according to the U.S. Fire Administration and FEMA.
A little extra caution, fire officials say, can help Illinois families enjoy a safe and happy holiday season.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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