Fire and insurance experts talk fire preparedness

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Local fire departments have been responding to an increase in fires in recent weeks as the weather has turned colder.

The Boone County Fire Protection District responded to three structure fires overnight on Tuesday. In the past week, the Columbia Fire Department has responded to three residential structure fires and one structure fire.

The Columbia Fire Department is telling people how to prevent fires that are often caused because of cold weather.

Brad Fraizer with the Columbia Fire Department said firefighters have seen some fires started from space heaters.

"This time of the year people are using space heaters as supplemental heat and it's real easy to forget that you've got one on," he said.

The fire department suggests people keep anything that is flammable at least three feet away from space heaters.

"It's also really important not to leave a space heater unattended and don't use it for permanent heat," Fraizer said.

Fire departments also typically see more flue fires in the winter months.

"The cause of that is almost always a buildup of creosote in the chimney, so it's really important that if you use your fireplace to make sure it's been checked by a licensed chimney inspector and get it cleaned if it needs to be cleaned," he said.

People may also experience frozen pipes during the winter. It is important for them not to use an open flame to try and thaw the pipes, but rather call a plumber or use things like insulating tape to thaw them out.

Jay MacLellan, Director of Public Relations for Shelter Insurance, said there are things homeowners and renters can do to make the process easier if they experience a fire.

He said having fire insurance is important, but so is having the correct amount.

"If there is a fire, having the correct value insurance on your home then would allow them to renovate the home, rebuild if needed to rebuild the whole thing," MacLellan said.

He said agents can help tailor coverage to each customer to ensure they are properly covered.

He also said insurance can provide funds for shelter if someone is displaced after a fire. Fraizer also said the fire department can help people find shelter through places like the Red Cross.

In order to ensure items are covered homeowners and renters can keep receipts from purchases and take photos of their home or apartment.

"Take your phone and do a video of your house room by room. That way you know what it is that you've got," MacLellan said.

If someone does have a fire they will have to fill out forms. Having a visual of belongings can make it easier to remember everything.

MacLellan said homeowners and rentals can do this once a year.

He also said it is important homeowners tell their insurance agent if they renovate their home in any way.