State Fire Marshal’s holiday safety tips

State Fire Marshal’s information

REYNOLDSBURG — While the number of fire deaths is still 9 percent higher than this time last year, fewer people were killed in fires in November than in November 2014. Eight people were killed, compared to 12 last year. That brings the yearly total to 108.

Although there was a decrease in November, any loss of life is too much. State Fire Marshal Larry L. Flowers asks Ohioans to be vigilant in their fight against these deadly fires.

“The above average temperatures in November allowed Ohioans to rely less on heating sources in their homes,” Flowers said. “However, we are entering into the coldest months, and it’s important that we be more aware than ever of potential fire risks in our homes and eliminate them.”

The Safe & Sound public awareness campaign kicked off in early October with a goal to reverse the trend of fire deaths during the winter months. Home heating fires are most likely to happen during this time of the year. With some preparation, Ohioans can ensure their families are safe from the threat of fire.

Here are some tips to keep in mind, especially during the holiday season:

• Do not block primary or alternative escape routes with a tree, decorations, or presents.
• Live Christmas trees should be as fresh as possible and watered daily.
• Stay in the kitchen when cooking to keep an eye on the food.
• Do not overload electrical outlets or extension cords.
• Plug space heaters directly into the wall.
• Keep flammable objects at least three feet from any heat source.
• Do not use the kitchen oven range to heat homes.
• Turn heaters off when leaving a room.
• Install a smoke alarm on each level of the home, inside and outside of each bedroom.
• Have a fire escape plan with two ways out.

The Department of Commerce and State Fire Marshal’s office have several partners to help fight this trend.  The Ohio Departments of Administrative Services, Aging, Agriculture, Public Safety, Development Services Agency and the Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing are taking an active role in Safe & Sound. The American Red Cross is also assisting with the campaign.

For information about the campaign and more fire safety tips, visit the State Fire Marshal’s website or twitter page.