As homes are decorated and temperatures drop, the American Red Cross is reminding families that holiday decorations, candles, and heating equipment can increase the risk of home fires.

December is the peak month for candle fires in the U.S., averaging about 20 home fires a day, while heating equipment remains one of the leading causes of fire-related deaths. The Red Cross recommends keeping anything that can burn at least three feet away from space heaters and never leaving them unattended.

Candles should be placed out of reach of children and pets and never left burning when no one is in the room. Space heaters should be used only on hard, nonflammable surfaces and turned off before leaving the room or going to sleep.

Officials also stress the importance of working smoke alarms. Smoke detectors should be installed near kitchens, on every level of the home, and near sleeping areas. Alarms should be tested monthly, with batteries replaced at least once a year.

In the past week alone, American Red Cross volunteers responded to eight home fires across central and southern Illinois, assisting 17 people with emergency supplies and support services.

More holiday fire safety tips, along with a free emergency preparedness app, are available at redcross.org/fire.