Rockford, IL – As Thanksgiving and holiday meals approach, the Rockford Fire Department is urging residents to stay vigilant in the kitchen. The department released a new safety advisory this week reminding the public that nearly half of all residential fires start with cooking.
According to the Rockford Fire Department, simple precautions can make a major difference. Among their top safety reminders: never leave cooking unattended, set timers for all dishes, and use remote thermometers when possible. Firefighters also warn against the dangerous combination of deep fryers and frozen turkeys, which can lead to explosive grease fires if not properly thawed.
Outdoor cooking safety is another concern. Officials advise keeping grills and smokers at least 10 feet away from any structures and ensuring good ventilation. Residents are also urged to keep a working fire extinguisher nearby and to clean ovens, air fryers, and burners before use to avoid flare-ups.
The department hopes these reminders will help families enjoy a safe, fire-free holiday season.
“Have fun, eat well, and stay safe,” the department’s message concludes.
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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