CONNECTICUT, USA — In the wake of four Somers children dying in a house fire last week, the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) is warning people of common mistakes that could lead to a fire.
The warning also comes as others were killed in deadly fires across the country in recent weeks as well.
In St. Paul, Minnesota, four children also died in a house fire on Jan. 3, just a day after the Somers fire. Officials said multiple people were also injured in that fire. The ages of children were one, four, and twins that were five years old.
In California, multiple people have been killed since New Year’s Day in house fires in the towns of Bellflower, Seal Beach, and Arcadia. At least one person was killed in each of those fires.
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While the causes of all the fires remain under investigation, those with the NFPA said that the winter months bring an increased risk of fires inside a home for many reasons, but most are preventable.
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The organization said heating equipment is the leading cause of home fires between December and January, while cooking equipment is the lead cause year-round. These top causes are followed by electrical and Christmas tree fires as well.
The NFPA said that to prevent a fire in your home, keep space heaters on a timer and away from any other furniture or objects. Also, keep an eye on your food while cooking and have a plan ready in case of a grease fire. Don’t plug too many things into one plug outlet, minimize extension cord use, and, of course, make sure your smoke detectors are working properly.
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But what is the biggest tip they have to offer? If you find yourself in a fire, experts say having a plan in place is key to getting out safely.
For more information and helpful resources, check out nfpa.org.
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Brooke Griffin is a reporter for FOX61 News. She can be reached at bgriffin@fox61.com. Follow her on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
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