•October 11, 2023•

During Fire Prevention Week (October 8-14), the American Red Cross of Greater Chicago, reminds everyone that cooking is the leading cause of home fires and issues safety steps to follow to help avoid one of these blazes. 

“The top reason for cooking fires is someone leaving the stove unattended while cooking,” said Mark Thomas, Interim CEO for the Red Cross of Illinois. “Cooking brings family and friends together, but this normal, everyday activity can also lead to disaster. In fact, cooking is the leading cause of home fires in the U.S. To help keep your loved ones safe, it’s important to stay in the kitchen while you’re cooking.” 

Follow these 10 steps to help stay safe while cooking: 

1. If you are frying, grilling or broiling food, never leave it unattended — stay in the kitchen. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove. 

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