By RYAN SKAITH
Amid several recent fires, the St. Joseph Fire Department has issued a series of safety reminders aimed at preventing home heating fires.
Fire officials noted that while heating is a primary concern during the winter months, cooking incidents remain the leading cause of residential fires. To mitigate these risks, the department recommends that residents always turn off kitchen appliances when leaving the room and keep any combustible items—such as towels, oven mitts, or packaging—well away from active heat sources.
Space heaters and electrical maintenance are also high on the department’s priority list. Residents should turn off portable heaters whenever they leave a room or go to sleep. Additionally, the department advises checking all electrical equipment for damaged or frayed cords, which should be replaced immediately to prevent electrical shorts and potential blazes.
The department also emphasized the life-saving importance of early detection. Officials urge every household to ensure that both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are installed and in proper working order, testing them regularly to ensure they can provide an adequate warning in the event of an emergency.