As the holiday season approaches, the American Red Cross of Western New York is reminding families to take simple precautions to prevent home fires — the most frequent disaster the Red Cross responds to each year.
Home fires tend to increase during the holidays, often caused by cooking accidents, unattended candles, or unsafe decorations. The Red Cross says small steps now can make a big difference in keeping families safe.
“One in five people the Red Cross assists after home fires are helped in just the holiday months,” said Ken Turner, Regional Disaster Officer for the Red Cross of Western New York. “Home fires can strike quickly, leaving you with as little as two minutes to escape. Practice your home fire escape drill until everyone can get out safely.”
Cooking Safety
The Red Cross encourages families to stay in the kitchen while cooking, keep flammable materials away from stoves, and check that all appliances are turned off before leaving home or going to bed. Using timers, keeping children and pets three feet from cooking areas, and having a fire extinguisher on hand are also recommended.
Decorating and Heating Safety
December is the peak month for candle fires — averaging about 20 per day nationwide — and heating equipment remains a leading cause of home fires. The Red Cross advises:
- Keep flammable materials at least three feet away from space heaters and fireplaces.
- Turn off space heaters when leaving a room or going to sleep.
- Never leave candles unattended or within reach of children or pets.
- Test smoke alarms monthly, replace batteries yearly, and ensure alarms are installed near kitchens, bedrooms, and on every level of your home.
Residents who need help installing smoke alarms can contact the Red Cross or visit SoundTheAlarm.org/wny.
Home Fire Campaign
Since launching in 2014, the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign has saved at least 2,489 lives nationwide by educating families about fire safety, helping them create escape plans, and installing free smoke alarms in high-risk communities.
To learn more or find additional fire safety resources, visit redcross.org/fire.
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