As the temperatures start to chill across the midcoast region, the American Red Cross urges families to be cautious when using space heaters and other heat sources, and to make a plan in case of a home fire. Heat sources are the leading cause of home fires and the number of fires often increases dramatically during the winter months.
Heat sources such as space heaters, fireplaces or wood and coal stoves can pose a fire hazard. To reduce the risk of heating related fires, the Red Cross recommends keeping anything that can burn such as paper, bedding or furniture, at least three feet away from heating equipment and fireplaces and to never leave these unattended.
“Last year, the Mid Coast Chapter responded to the emergency needs of 124 children and adults left homeless when their homes were damaged or destroyed by fires. We have already responded to fires in Westport Island, Waldoboro, Richmond and an eleven-unit apartment building in Thomaston,” said Connie Jones, executive director of the Mid Coast Chapter. “But the good news is that there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of a home fire.”
The American Red Cross offers the following fire prevention tips:
The Red Cross depends on the generous support of midcoast area residents to be ready to respond and help our neighbors who are affected by home fires and other disasters. You can help your neighbors recover from devastating disasters by making a tax-deductible donation today. To make a financial donation of support or for more information about how to become a Red Cross disaster volunteer, please contact us at www.maineredcross.org, or call the Mid Coast Chapter at 729-6779.