Rockford Sun

With the Thanksgiving holiday approaching, Illinois State Senator Dave Syverson is reminding residents to take precautions to ensure a safe celebration.

The American Red Cross reports that Thanksgiving and the day before are the two leading days for home cooking fires in the United States. Across the country, an average of 158,400 home fires each year are related to cooking, which accounts for 44 percent of all home fires. The organization warns that with many Americans preparing large meals during this period, simple mistakes in the kitchen can quickly become hazardous.

To help prevent accidents, Senator Syverson shared several safety tips: "Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you must leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.

Use a timer to remind yourself that the stove or oven is on.

Avoid wearing loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.

Keep kids and pets at least three feet away from cooking areas.

Keep anything that can catch on fire — potholders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains — away from your stove top and oven or any other appliance that generates heat.

Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.

Consider purchasing a fire extinguisher to keep in your kitchen.

Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving home to make sure all stoves, ovens, and small appliances are turned off.

Check your smoke alarm batteries."

Senator Syverson emphasized that following these steps can help reduce accidents and lower the risk of fire emergencies during holiday gatherings.

Syverson has served as a Republican member of the Illinois State Senate since 1993 and represents the state's 35th Senate District.