By Logan Wells, News Director | Logan@kymnradio.net
After two house fires in the last few months in the Northfield area, and several smaller fires in the past year in homes, Northfield Fire Chief Tom Nelson is offering advice to help stop some of the most common causes of fires.
Nelson stated that one of the most common fire starters is from candles. According to the National Fire Protection Association in the past year there were 5,910 house fires caused by candles. Nelson shared how a candle started fire in Northfield in the past year:
“But I also know of plenty of fires that are caused by open flames. Candles are nice. We’ve had curtains catch on fire. We had a fire up on the east side this year because the curtains blew open and over the candle. Think before you use a candle.” – Tom Nelson, Northfield Area Fire Chief on the KYMN Morning Show
When using a candle, ensure it is placed at least one foot away from any flammable objects. Opt for candle holders with a sturdy base for added stability, and always keep candles out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental tipping or spills.
Another common issue with house fires, Nelson said, was too much stuff inside homes:
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“Just look around the house and say do we need this stuff, do we need this box of stuff? Tjat is all fire load. Road so declutter. It’s the perfect time of year: Dundas and Northfield will be having their clean up days. Declutter your garage, and declutter your home.” – Tom Nelson, Northfield Area Fire Chief on the KYMN Morning Show
With the arrival of spring, there is also a series of other common fires started by people, particularly around barbecuing. According to the Fire Protection Association, in the past several years, an average of 21,000 people per year have gone to the hospital with fire-related injuries from grilling. Nelson noted that many people may be drinking alcohol while grilling, which can help lead to burns and fires as well. The Fire Protection Association recommends cleaning your grill regularly of any grease or fat buildup, keeping your grill away from the home and out from under evas and overhanging branches, and ensuring the fire is fully extinguished, especially with charcoal grills. Lastly, Nelson stated that smoking can be a serious cause of fires, stating that he could think of 4 fires caused by smoking in the last few years. Nelson said their are a few important questions to ask whenever you are smoking:
“Where are you smoking? Where are you putting them out? Are they far enough away? Don’t have it right by the house. Don’t flick them off the deck.” – Tom Nelson, Northfield Area Fire Chief, on the KYMN Morning Show
You can hear Nelson’s full conversation with KYMN here:
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