The American Red Cross has issued reminders for heating homes safely, including testing smoke alarms and practicing fire drills.
Home fires account for most of the 60,000-plus disasters the Red Cross responds to annually, and home fire responses are 30% higher during cold months. Safety tips include never leaving space heaters unattended, keeping them on a level, nonflammable surface, and away from furniture, bedding, or drapes.
Children and pets should stay at least three feet away from space heaters. Never use an oven or range to heat a home or leave an unattended fire in the fireplace. Furnaces, chimneys, and fireplaces should be inspected annually and cleaned if necessary.
For more tips or information, visit redcross.org/Texas
