Thanksgiving Safety: Preventing Holiday Cooking Fires in Illinois, Wisconsin

Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones and enjoy delicious food, but it’s also the leading day for home-cooking fires in the U.S., according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

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In 2022 alone, an estimated 1,610 home cooking fires were reported to fire departments on Thanksgiving Day—almost four times the daily average.

The Dangers of Holiday Cooking

Illinois State Fire Marshal James A. Rivera underscores the importance of vigilance during the holiday:

Kitchens are the heart and soul of many homes, especially during Thanksgiving. Things can get hectic as people prepare their meals. Setting timers, establishing kid- and pet-free zones, and staying attentive to what’s cooking can make all the difference.

Cooking equipment is responsible for over half of all home fires, with ranges and cooktops accounting for nearly 60% of those incidents.

Ovens contribute another 13%. As frying a turkey becomes an increasingly popular Thanksgiving tradition, following proper safety guidelines is crucial to avoid accidents.

Tips for a Safe Thanksgiving

Experts recommend thoroughly thawing and drying your turkey before frying to prevent oil splatters.

Always fry outdoors, and never overfill the fryer with oil—testing water levels beforehand can help determine the right amount. Using long cooking gloves for protection is another key step.

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For general kitchen safety, never leave food frying, grilling, or boiling unattended. Keep flammable items like towels or papers away from heat sources, and create a three-foot “kid-free zone” around stoves and ovens.

If a fire breaks out in the oven, shut the door and turn off the heat. For stovetop fires, smother flames with a lid rather than water.

Additional Fire Safety information can be found here from the NFPA or the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal website.