As Halloween festivities ramp up across Illinois, the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) is reminding families to celebrate safely and keep fire hazards in check. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), from 2019 to 2023 an average of 832 home fires began with holiday decorations each year.
These fires caused three civilian deaths, 28 injuries, and $17 million in property damage annually. Nearly half were started when decorations were placed too close to heat sources, while about one-third began with candles. The U.S. Fire Administration also reported that roughly 9,200 fires occur nationwide each year around Halloween.
“Simple safety steps can make a big difference in keeping your family and community safe,” said Illinois State Fire Marshal Michele Pankow. “Choose safe decorations, flame-resistant materials, and battery-operated candles instead of real flames to ensure a fun and fire-safe Halloween.”
