Fire Prevention Week raises awareness around house fires, cold weather safety tips

NORFOLK, Neb. -- As the weather begins to cool, furnaces begin to turn on and bills start to ramp up during the colder temperatures.

With the added use of electricity and heating, many homes could be at risk for house fires, according to Norfolk Fire Marshall Sean Lindgren.

“The receptacle could fail, the wiring inside the wall could fail, or an extension cord along the floor could fail and that’s when we see problems,” Lindgren said.

Electrical fires, furnace fires, and carbon monoxide can all be worries during the winter season.

Lindgren also warns to use space heaters the way they were intended by the manufacturer.

Fire is not the only danger during the winter season.

Carbon monoxide can also pose a danger as people may start their cars in the morning during the cold.

“It [carbon monoxide] can start building up right away,” Lindgren said. “The exhaust from a vehicle contains a lot of carbon monoxide.”

As National Fire Prevention Week is underway, Lindgren said the big focus this year is on kitchen fires.

“Being aware of cooking and how cooking can cause fires within our homes so it’s always good to pay attention to that," Lindgren said. "Don’t walk away from any cooking even if it’s on the outside with your grill or anything like that.”

Many areas around the home can start a fire but, according to the National Fire Prevention Association, the kitchen is the most common room to begin a fire.