Thanksgiving is the #1 Day for Cooking Fires and South Carolina makes the Top Ten

Columbia, SC – As cooking remains the leading cause of home fires in the United States, State Farm claims data indicates South Carolina ranks #8 in the nation for cooking fires.

State Farm is highlighting the latest statistics on cooking-related fire costs, including the top ten states, and offering essential tips to help families stay safe in the kitchen or outside with a turkey fryer or grill.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), more home cooking fires occur in the U.S. on Thanksgiving Day than any other day during the year.

From January 1, 2024, through November of 2025, State Farm has paid nearly $234 million for indoor and outdoor cooking fire losses. The company paid out more than $9 million in South Carolina during that time period.

The Top Ten states for cooking fire losses by cost during that time period are:

1. Georgia                            $19.6 million
2. Illinois                                  $17.8 million
3. Michigan                             $12.3 million
4. Texas                                    $11.6 million
5. Pennsylvania                      $11.4 million
6. Ohio                                      $10.9 million
7. North Carolina                   $10.6 million
8. South Carolina              $9.7 million
9. California                             $9.6 million
10. Virginia                                $8.7 million

Nationally, the average cooking fire loss was over $73,000.

Cooking fires account for nearly 50% of all reported home fires annually. These incidents often result from unattended cooking, grease buildup, and malfunctioning appliances, leading to significant property damage, injuries, and even fatalities. “State Farm urges all homeowners to review their insurance policies, fire safety plans and ensure smoke alarms are installed and functioning properly,” says State Farm spokesman Roszell Gadson.

Key Cooking Fire Statistics:

• Cooking fires are the top cause of home fires, accounting for approximately 49% of all residential fire incidents.
• Unattended cooking is the leading factor in these fires, responsible for over 40% of cooking fire-related emergencies.
• Frying equipment is involved in nearly 60% of cooking fires.
• Nearly 70% of cooking fires occur during the evening hours between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Cooking fires are preventable with simple precautions. Stay attentive while cooking and follow safety guidelines to protect your home and loved ones.

Cooking Fire Safety Tips:

1. Stay in the Kitchen: Never leave cooking food unattended. If you must leave, turn off the stove or oven.
2. Keep Flammable Items Away: Keep towels, potholders, and paper products at least three feet away from heat sources.
3. Maintain Clean Appliances: Regularly clean stove tops, ovens, and vent hoods to prevent grease buildup.
4. Use Timers: Set timers as reminders when cooking, especially when simmering, baking, or roasting.
5. Keep a Fire Extinguisher Handy: Have a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it.
6. Wear Appropriate Clothing: Avoid loose-fitting sleeves that can catch fire.
7. Turn Pot Handles Inward: Prevent accidental spills by turning handles away from the edge of the stove.

State Farm® Releases Latest Cooking Fire Statistics and Safety Tips to Help Prevent Kitchen Fires