LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- As temperatures drop this fall, the Louisville Fire Department is encouraging people to take the proper precautions to stay warm.
Capt. Donovan Sims said taking the right steps to stay warm inside homes can help prevent fires.
"A lot of people see us put fires out, but we like to prevent those, so one thing we can do as people start to heat their house and try to stay warm is just to be cautious," Sims said.
Firefighters encourage people to check their furnace and vents to make sure everything is properly cleaned. Blankets and adding an extra layer of clothing can keep people warm, but it's also important to use precautions.
"When it comes to heating in general, make sure we're doing that in safe ways," Sims said. "We're not using our stove, we're not leaving candles sitting around by themselves.
Space heaters have caused numerous fires in Louisville over the past few years. Sims said space heaters should be plugged into a wall, and never into a power strip.
"Don't leave them unattended," Sims said. "If you're going to use them in your bedroom, but you're going to hang out in your living room for a couple hours, turn it off. Don't leave it standing alone."
Some fire prevention tips commonly shared include:
- Keeping items at least 3-5 feet away from space heaters
- Don't plug appliances into extension cords — that includes space heaters
- Don't leave cooking unattended
- Make sure electronics include a sticker from UL or ETL, meaning they've been lab-tested and meet specific safety standards
- Don't bring a generator inside your home
In Louisville Metro, people who live in owner-occupied single-family homes can request a home inspection through Metro311 or by calling 311. Firefighters will perform a voluntary home fire safety inspection and install a free 10-year lithium battery operated smoke alarm.
This year, the U.S. Fire Administration reports that 1,574 people have died in home fires, while 47 firefighters have died.
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