OSHKOSH, Wis. (WFRV) – Fire officials in Oshkosh say a recent string of structure fires is a reminder that fire prevention starts inside the home.
While colder weather might seem like an obvious cause of house fires, Oshkosh Fire Department Assistant Chief Greg Stelter said that is not always the case.
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“It’s natural to think with cool weather, overworked heating causes fires — that’s not the case,” Stelter said. “It’s really fire safety and prevention that could prevent some of them.”
Stelter said one of the biggest issues seen in serious fires is nonfunctioning smoke detectors.
“It can’t be overstated — functioning smoke detectors,” Stelter said. “We find in fires that have injuries, a common denominator is smoke detectors, for example, detectors with batteries pulled out.”
He said many fires begin in the kitchen and can often be prevented with simple precautions.
“Pot handles should be turned away from the cooking surface,” Stelter said. “That way, if a dog or child jumps up and hits it, it won’t tip over.”
Stelter also warned against placing combustible items near the stove.
“We’ve had people put items on top of the stove, and then a large dog or child turns it on,” he said. “Keep those items a good distance away from the cooktop.”
Candles and space heaters can also pose risks if not used carefully.
“You light them because you want to relax, but don’t relax too much,” Stelter said.
He said many household materials burn quickly once ignited.
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“Any material that is synthetic burns quickly and burns hot,” Stelter said. “Even something simple like blankets or drapes.”
Stelter said making small changes at home and teaching children fire safety habits early can be lifesaving.
