Fire safety reminder: American Red Cross and Jefferson City Fire Department
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.
The American Red Cross is reminding residents of simple steps to prevent fires in their homes. The safety tips include:
- Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from heat sources, such as space heaters.
- Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas. Test them monthly and replace batteries at least once a year.
- Turn off portable heaters when leaving the room or going to sleep.
- During power outages, use flashlights instead of candles, and never leave candles unattended.
The Jefferson City Fire Department is also reminding residents of the importance of having working smoke detectors installed in homes.
The reminder comes after the Jefferson City Fire Department responded to a fire Thursday night.
According to a news release, they responded to a reported structure fire in the 1000 block of Rock Hill Rd. at 8:24 p.m. Firefighters found flames in the attic of the home.
The cause is under investigation, but the department said it appears to be accidental.
The fire caused mild structural damage, along with moderate smoke and water damage. No injuries were reported. One adult and two dogs were displaced and are receiving assistance from the American Red Cross.
The American Red Cross recommends that every household have a fire escape plan and practice it at least two times each year.
