With colder days settling in across Central Illinois, the American Red Cross is encouraging everyone to take a few simple precautions to stay warm this Winter season. As furnaces kick on and space heaters come out of storage, the risk of home fires tends to rise sharply during the colder months. The Red Cross says heating equipment remains one of the leading causes of house fires nationwide, but a few mindful steps can go a long way towards keeping families safe.
Kellie O’Connell, CEO of the Red Cross of Illinois, says now is a good time to look around your home and make sure heating equipment is being used correctly. Keeping at least three feet of space around heaters and fireplaces, testing smoke alarms each month, and practicing a two-minute home fire escape plan can all make a big difference. The organization also reminds families that most home fires start when heat sources are left too close to something that can burn like furniture, curtains, or bedding.
If you’re using a space heater this winter, it’s important to place it on a level, non-flammable surface like tile, and to plug it directly into a wall outlet rather than an extension cord. Never leave it running when you leave the room or go to sleep. Fireplaces should always be covered with a glass or metal screen to keep embers from escaping. Any heating systems, furnaces, or chimneys, should be inspected by a professional each year to prevent buildup or malfunctions. The Red Cross also reminds residents that stoves and ovens should never be used as a heat source claiming this is a dangerous habit that can quickly lead to tragedy.
In just the past week, Red Cross volunteers responded to three separate home fires in Decatur, Philadelphia, and Macomb, providing emergency assistance to seven people who lost their homes or belongings. Volunteers helped with immediate needs like shelter, health support, and supplies, as well as ongoing recovery guidance.
To learn more about home fire safety or to find tips on creating a family escape plan, visit www.redcross.org/fire.
