A recent Gazette article stated that Iowa is on pace to have the most deaths caused by fire in over a decade. The most common causes of fires are: cooking, smoking, and heating equipment. Candles can also be dangerous.

The National Fire Protection Association has a website with a lot of information about preventing fires, and being prepared in case of a fire. A few highlights:

• Keep flammable items away from flames and heat sources (i.e. towels away from stovetop; paper away from fireplaces)
• Never leave items unattended while cooking
• Have a lid handy to smother a grease fire
• Never leave candles unattended
• Never light candles near flammable materials (curtains, blankets, etc.)
• Be sure to service your furnace, fireplace and chimney annually
• Never leave space heaters unattended, and turn them off when going to sleep
• Test smoke alarms monthly; change batteries every 6 months
• If you smoke, smoke outside; don’t smoke while in bed
• Have an escape plan and practice it regularly. Know how to escape in the event of a fire, and how you will meet up with the family once you are safely outside.

Please be cautious and prepared to prevent a fire.