Why Most Home Fires Occur in the Winter

11/23/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know more home fires occur during the winter than any other season? The United States Fire Administration (USFA) says that winter home fires claim 905 lives per year and result in damages that cost upwards of $2 million.

Some of the most common causes of winter home fires are candles, holiday decorations, dry Christmas trees and fireplaces.

Keep these tips in mind when preparing your home for the holidays:

Follow safe heating practices.

• Make sure your space heater has an automatic shut-off.
• Use a screen for your fireplace and check your chimney regularly.
• Keep heating equipment away from flammable materials.

Follow safe cooking practices.

• Keep an eye on the stove and turn off hot burners or the oven if no one is home.
• Don't let too many cooks in the kitchen!
• Roll up your sleeves to avoid clothes catching on fire.

Practice winter fire safety during the holidays.

• Don't leave holiday lights leaving all day, and don't connect more than three strands of lights.
• Don't leave burning candles unattended, and make sure they are away from flammable materials.
• Have family emergency and communication plans ready in case of a fire.