Huntsville Fire & Rescue offers 5 simple ways to prevent house fires

As the temperatures drop and the holiday season arrives, your home may become more susceptible to fire hazards. Cold weather brings the increased use of space heaters, while the holiday season sees more cooking, decorating and gatherings, all of which can elevate the risk of a fire.

While fires may seem rare, they’re more common than you might think. In fact, Huntsville Fire & Rescue responded to nearly 200 structure fires in 2024 alone, following 237 structure fires the previous year. Fortunately, taking a few simple precautions can help protect your home and loved ones from fire. Here are five common — but often overlooked — ways to prevent fires this season.

1. Keep space around space heaters

Space heaters are a lifesaver when the cold weather hits, but they can also be a fire hazard if not used properly. Always maintain a clear space around your heater, keeping it at least three feet away from anything that could catch fire — such as furniture, blankets or clothing. Avoid using extension cords unless they’re rated to handle the power load of the space heater, as using the wrong cord can lead to overheating and a potential fire. Be extra cautious if you’re using a space heater while you sleep.

2. Cook with care, especially around grease

Cooking fires are the leading cause of house fires, and frying foods in grease can be especially dangerous. During the holidays, with all the cooking and baking happening, it’s important to stay vigilant. Always keep an eye on hot grease, never leave cooking unattended, and keep flammable items — like dish towels or oven mitts — away from the stovetop. If you’re frying food, be sure to have a lid or fire extinguisher nearby in case of a grease fire. And remember, never cook if you’re feeling tired, on medication or under the influence of alcohol.

3. Handle lithium-ion batteries carefully

Lithium-ion batteries power many of our everyday devices, from cell phones to laptops to toys. But when not used or disposed of properly, they can be a fire risk. Always use the manufacturer-approved charger for devices that rely on these batteries, and never charge them unattended for extended periods. If a battery becomes damaged or reaches the end of its useful life, dispose of it at a recycling center, such as the Solid Waste Disposal Authority at 1055 A Cleaner Way. Proper disposal will prevent the risk of fires and help protect the environment.

4. Safely dispose of ashes and cigarette butts

Wintertime often brings cozy evenings around fire pits, but just because the flames appear to have died down doesn’t mean the risk is gone. Embers can smolder for hours or even days, potentially reigniting into a fire if disturbed. Always dispose of ashes in a metal container with a lid and pour water on them to ensure they’re completely extinguished. Similarly, if you’re a smoker, never discard cigarette butts carelessly. A discarded cigarette can ignite dry grass or leaves, especially in a flower bed or on the side of the road. Make sure all butts go into a noncombustible, secure receptacle.

5. Keep your holiday tree hydrated

Live Christmas trees are a beloved holiday tradition, but they can quickly become a fire hazard if not cared for properly. A dry tree can catch fire in seconds, so it’s important to keep the tree well-watered. Check the water level daily and never let it run dry. Also, keep the tree away from heat sources like space heaters, candles and fireplaces, which can dry it out faster or ignite it. With proper care, your tree will stay safe and festive throughout the season.

By following these simple fire safety tips, you can ensure that your home stays safe and warm during the winter months and throughout the holiday season. Stay aware, stay cautious and remember that fire prevention starts with a little extra attention to detail.