Home fires increase significantly during the holiday months, often sparked by cooking accidents, unattended candles or unsafe decorations. The American Red Cross of Nebraska is urging everyone to take simple steps to stay safe while celebrating, from keeping a close eye on what’s cooking to checking holiday lights and decorations for hazards.
Spokesman Josh Murray tells KLIN News by taking precautions now, families can help prevent tragedies and enjoy a safer, happier holiday season. “One in five people the Red Cross assists after home fires are helped in just the holiday months,” Murray says. “Home fires can strike quickly, leaving you with as little as two minutes to escape.”
He says you can help protect your loved ones by practicing your home fire escape drill until everyone can get out in less than two minutes. When it comes to cooking, Murray says stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling or broiling food. If you must leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
“Use a timer to remind yourself that the stove or oven is on and avoid wearing loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.” He also advises keeping kids and pets at least three feet away from cooking areas.
“Keep anything that can catch on fire , potholders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains away from your stove top and oven or any other appliance that generates heat.”
Murray says December is the peak month for candle fires, which cause about 20 home fires a day on average in the U.S. and heating equipment remains one of the leading causes of home fires. He says provide at least three feet of space for all heating equipment so furniture, rugs and drapes don’t catch fire. “Never leave space heaters unattended, as they’re involved in most fatal home heating fires.
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