Watch CBS News

Illinois Fire Marshal Offers Safety Tips For Thanksgiving

CHICAGO (AP) — The Illinois state fire marshal is urging people to be safe in the kitchen this week as Thanksgiving is the peak day for when the most home cooking fires occur.

In 2015, fire departments nationwide responded to over 1,700 home cooking fires on Thanksgiving. That's according to the National Fire Protection Association.

Fire Marshal Matt Perez suggests staying at home when the turkey is cooking and to check on it often. Also, turn pot handles inward over the stove and keep them out of reach from accident bumps or pets.

The fire marshal is advising those using turkey fryers to never leave them unattended and keep them outdoors and away from walls and off decks. Also keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

(TM and © Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.