Now that it has gotten colder outside and more people will be spending time in their homes, it’s a good time to go over some fire prevention reminders.

Jefferson Fire Chief Jack Williams says one of the most common home fires is from an electric heater. He reminds the public to keep these tips in mind so as to reduce the chance of starting a fire from an electric heater.

“Just make sure that your little electric heaters are plugged into a safe cord that’s able to take the amps that they pull. Make sure that they are on a hard surface so if they get knocked over they don’t cause a fire. Don’t set them on carpet, or near curtains, or magazines, or anything like that. Keep them in a safe place where they’re away from anything that’s combustible. And the biggest thing is just make sure that they’re plugged into a place that can handle (the power) because they do draw a lot of power, which causes heat, which can cause a fire.”  

Chief Williams points out when using candles to make sure those are completely out if you plan on leaving the room that those are in for a while. He adds to push the candles far enough back on the surface that they are on to keep them out of the reach of children from potentially starting a fire. Finally, Williams advises having fire extinguishers handy in case a fire starts and make sure all smoke detectors are functioning properly.