Authorities from around the local area and across the state are cautioning safety this Thanksgiving week and weekend.
Illinois State Police Colonel Tad Willliams says the number one goal over the Thanksgiving weekend is to reduce the number of fatal crashes.
State police statistics show the number of fatalities increases on Illinois interstates during the holiday period, as more motorists hit the road.They expect Thanksgiving Day to be the busiest for road travel.
Monmouth Deputy Police Chief Joe Switzer cautions drivers to buckle up on the road and to drive sober.
Meanwhile, those in the kitchen need to be aware, as well. Galesburg Fire Marshal Randy Hovind says if you’re roasting a turkey, make sure to set a timer.
For those frying the turkey, use a fryer with thermostat controls, be cautious of the amount of oil you use and keep children and pets away from the fryer.
Home cooking fires happen at twice the rate on Thanksgiving than any other day. Hovind says firefighters would like to have dinner with their families, not yours.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.
