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.
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.
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:
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:
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!
News Summary Liberty City celebrates the appointment of Paul Sutherland as head coach for South…
News Summary Luck Companies has announced a significant $450 million investment to expand its quarry…
News Summary South Carolina is witnessing significant growth in its construction sector, highlighted by prestigious…
News Summary United Bankshares, Inc. has announced its acquisition of Piedmont Bancorp, Inc., marking its…
News Summary As Columbia faces below-freezing temperatures, local agencies have joined forces to provide emergency…
News Summary Columbia has been awarded $204 million in federal funding from the Federal Railroad…