Officials educate Phoenix homeowners about fire prevention during holidays

PHOENIX — The holiday season typically means family and friends gathering in places filled with love and happiness — but it also brings along plenty of fire hazards.

In order to prevent any disasters, the Arizona chapter of the American Red Cross and Phoenix Fire Department partnered to educate homeowners on fire prevention.

“The three areas we really want people to pay attention to are Christmas tree safety, candle safety and heating elements,” Frank Solomon with the Phoenix Fire Department told KTAR News 92.3 FM. 

Once fire crews arrive on scene to ensure that the fire is out and everyone is safe, the American Red Cross steps in to help the residents who are left with little to no options or resources.

“This time is very busy for the Red Cross. Right now, we are seeing a lot of home responses for our agency to assist homeowners who just lost everything,” spokesman Colin Williams said.

“That’s not only the roof over their head, but their medicine, personal belongings, as well as all their presents under their tree.”

In the first nine days of this year, American Red Cross officials responded to nearly 60 percent more home fires than in 2017.

Homeowners in the Phoenix area can also get a smoke detector installed in their home for free through the Red Cross’ Sound the Alarm initiative. All homeowners have to do is call 602-336-6469.

“Prevention is key for holiday fires and the first line of defense is having a working smoke detector,” Solomon said.

Some other safety tips fire officials had for homeowners this holiday season included placing Christmas trees and other holiday decorations at least three feet away from heat sources, keeping live trees as moist as possible and making sure holiday lights aren’t frayed and are in good working condition.

 

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