Illinois Officials Urge Fire Safety Precautions for Older Adults in Winter

State agencies warn of increased fire risks and provide tips to prevent winter-related home fires among senior population.

Mar. 3, 2026 at 5:31am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) and Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) are reminding residents, especially older adults and their caregivers, to take extra precautions to prevent winter-related fires. Heating equipment like space heaters, electric blankets, and alternative heating sources can pose serious fire risks if not used properly. Older adults face higher risks, with those over 65 twice as likely to die in fires and the risk increasing to four times the general population by age 85.

Why it matters

Preventing fires and fire-related injuries is a critical public health issue, especially for the state's aging population. Older adults face unique challenges like slower reaction times, mobility issues, and medical conditions that can limit their ability to escape quickly during a fire emergency. Raising awareness and providing safety tips can help protect vulnerable residents.

The details

According to national fire data, heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fires during the winter months. The OSFM and IDPH are urging families, caregivers, and neighbors to check in on older adults and ensure their homes are properly equipped with working smoke alarms and other fire safety measures. Simple steps like keeping space heaters away from flammable materials, turning off heating devices before bed, and creating a home fire escape plan can significantly reduce the risk of harm.

  • The colder winter temperatures continue across Illinois.

The players

Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM)

A state agency responsible for fire prevention and safety programs in Illinois.

Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH)

The state's public health agency that works to protect the health and wellness of Illinois residents.

Michele Pankow

The Illinois State Fire Marshal who is urging older adults and their caregivers to take extra precautions during the winter months.

Dr. Sameer Vohra

The Director of the Illinois Department of Public Health who emphasizes the importance of preventing injuries, including those from fires and falls, for the state's older population.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Winter months present unique fire hazards, particularly for our senior population. Simple steps like keeping space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn, testing smoke alarms monthly, and never using an oven to heat your home can make a life-saving difference.”

— Michele Pankow, Illinois State Fire Marshal

“Older Illinoisans face unique risks in the home, including fires and falls. Preventing injuries is a critical part of public health, and simple steps, like testing smoke alarms, keeping heating equipment safe, and removing tripping hazards, can significantly reduce the risk of harm. We encourage families and caregivers to act now to protect their loved ones.”

— Dr. Sameer Vohra, Director, Illinois Department of Public Health

What’s next

The OSFM and IDPH encourage families to develop a support plan for older loved ones, ensuring they have working alarms, accessible exits, and assistance if needed during an emergency. For more fire safety tips and resources, residents can visit the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal website.

The takeaway

This public awareness campaign highlights the heightened fire risks faced by older adults during the winter and the critical importance of proactive fire safety measures to protect vulnerable populations. By taking simple precautions and checking in on elderly neighbors and family members, communities can significantly reduce the chances of tragic winter-related home fires.