With Fire Prevention Week ongoing through Saturday, the American Red Cross urges all to review their home safety plans.
Home heating equipment and cooking are the two leading causes of home fires, and Red Cross disaster teams have already responded to over 1,300 fires in Missouri and neighboring states this year, said officials.
To minimize fire risks, the organization recommends keeping anything that can catch on fire away from stovetops and never leaving cooking food or space heaters unattended. Space heaters should be plugged directly into outlets — never extension cords — and kept at least three feet from flammable materials, children and pets.
The Red Cross also stresses the importance of working smoke alarms, which can reduce the risk of dying in a fire by nearly half. Alarms should be placed on every level of the home and inside each sleeping area. Units older than 10 years must be replaced.
Additionally, households should create a fire escape plan with two exits from every room and a designated meeting spot outside. Families should practice the plan twice a year, ensuring everyone knows how to get out in under two minutes.
For more fire safety resources, visit redcross.org.
