Red Cross: steps to take to heat your home safely
•November 19, 2025•
As temperatures drop across the Illinois Region, the American Red Cross urges families to take several steps to heat their homes safely. “Heating equipment is a leading cause of home fires in this country,” said Kellie O’Connell, CEO of the Red Cross of Illinois. “But there are steps people can take to avoid having this happen to them. Help keep your family safe by providing at least three feet of space around all heating equipment, testing your smoke alarms monthly, and practicing your two-minute home fire escape plan.” Overall, home fires account for most of the 60,000-plus disasters that the Red Cross responds to each year - and home fire responses are 30% higher during cold months than warmer times of year.