MARYVILLE – To ensure residents are safe during the holidays, State Senator Rachelle Crowe (D-Glen Carbon) is promoting tips to use in the kitchen to avoid house fires, as Thanksgiving is the leading day for home fires involving cooking equipment.

Get The Latest News!

Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.

“This holiday season looks different with the global pandemic, but many are cooking for their families, and fire safety is still important,” Crowe said. “I urge residents to take precautions when cooking, especially if you’re cooking Thanksgiving dinner for the first time.”

According to National Fire Protection Association and National Fire Incident Reporting System data, cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries. U.S. fire departments respond to an average of 166,100 home fires per year involving cooking equipment.

Article continues after sponsor message

Some tips to keep in mind when preparing food this holiday are:

Not leaving the kitchen while frying, boiling, grilling or broiling food,

Using the turkey fryer outdoors only and

Using long cooking gloves that protect hands and arms when handling hot pots.

For additional Fire Safety information, visit the NFPA website or the Office of the State Fire Marshal website.

More like this:

Nov 21, 2023 - Cooking Safety; A Top Priority On Thanksgiving Day

Dec 5, 2023 - This Holiday Season; Deck The Halls With Fire Safety In Mind

Oct 9, 2023 - Cooking Safety Starts With You! Pay Attention to Fire Prevention

Jan 31, 2024 - Carbon Monoxide And Home Heating Safety Awareness Key To Staying Warm And Safe This Winter

Nov 17, 2023 - Red Cross Offers Steps To Help You Avoid A Cooking Fire On Thanksgiving