Sunny Days Ahead in Columbia but Caution Advised for the Cold Months
Hey there, Columbia! While we’re soaking up some beautiful sunshine today, with skies expected to be sunny to partly cloudy and a pleasant high of 59°F, let’s take a moment to chat about something more serious. As the temperatures drop and winter rolls in, the risk of home fires can increase, making safety a priority for our community.
Community Comes Together for Fire Relief
Just this past week, on December 11, tragedy struck a family on Howard St. when their home was damaged by a fire. Thankfully, our brave disaster-trained volunteers from the American Red Cross have stepped up to lend a hand. They’re providing support for immediate needs like food, clothing, and shelter, along with referrals to further resources for the four residents affected. It’s heartwarming to see our community come together in times of need.
In South Carolina, the Red Cross responds to an astonishing average of six home fires EVERY DAY. It’s a startling statistic, especially since these incidents tend to rise by a striking 30% during the winter months. “Home fires are a real threat to communities across South Carolina year-round, especially during the winter months,” says Yolanda Gainwell, interim CEO of the Red Cross of South Carolina. With that in mind, it’s essential for families to take precautions and keep their loved ones safe.
Holiday Decorating Safety Tips
As we settle into the holiday season, here are some handy safety tips from the Red Cross to help prevent fires while decking the halls:
- Keep candles away from flammable objects and out of reach from kids and pets. Never leave burning candles unattended!
- Inspect your holiday lighting for frays or breaks. And remember, no more than three strands of lights should be strung together per extension cord.
- Choose outdoor-rated decorations and make sure lights are securely fastened to your home or tree. If you’re using hooks or nails outdoors, ensure they are insulated to prevent electrocution or fire hazards.
- When buying an artificial tree, check for a fire-resistant label. Keep it away from heat sources and never use electric lights on metallic trees.
- If you’re opting for a live tree, ensure it’s fresh and keep it watered regularly. Check the freshness by bending the needles—if they fall off, it’s too dry!
- Avoid lighting a fireplace if stockings or decorations are hanging on the mantel. Safety first!
Safe Heating Practices
When it comes to warming your home during those chilly nights, it’s vital to be cautious. Did you know that space heaters are often responsible for home heating fires? Here are some tips to keep your home safe while staying cozy:
- Never leave a space heater unattended. Place it on a level, non-flammable surface and keep it well away from rugs, bedding, and curtains.
- Plug space heater power cords directly into outlets—bypass extension cords!
- Always turn off the heater when you leave the room or hit the hay.
- Make sure children, pets, and any flammable materials are at least three feet away from heating equipment.
- Never use the stove or oven to heat your home!
- If you have a fireplace, make sure it’s properly monitored, and don’t forget to ensure all embers are extinguished before bed.
- It’s a smart move to have your heating systems checked by a professional every year.
How to Help Your Neighbors in Need
Want to make a difference? You can help those affected by disasters like home fires by donating to the Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund. Your generous gifts prepare the Red Cross to respond to emergencies, helping families recover from all sorts of disasters. Donations can be made easily by visiting redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED-CROSS, or texting “REDCROSS” to 90999 for a quick $10 donation.
Let’s keep our community safe and look out for one another this holiday season. Enjoy the sunny weather, but be proactive about fire safety! Stay warm and safe, Columbia!
