How to prevent a house fire during the holiday season

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Red Cross of the Greater Triangle Area Chapter is urging everyone to prioritize safety during the holiday season to prevent a rise in home fires.

The organization says they typically see an increase in home fires during the holiday months, often caused by cooking accidents, unattended candles, or space heaters.

Red Cross said since November they've seen about a 26% increase in fires compared to this time last year.

"In the Triangle area seeing at least one to two home fires almost each day. And I do think part of that has been that it has been a bit colder quicker this year than last year. And again whenever it's cold we see people using those indoor heaters and other mechanisms that have a way of unfortunately catching fire," said Ellen Gorham with the Red Cross.

Here's some safety tips from Red Cross on how you can keep you and your loved ones safe this holiday.

Place Christmas trees, candles, and other holiday decorations at least three feet away from heat sources like fire places or heaters.

Unplug tree and holiday lights before leaving home or going to bed and make sure all the smoke alarms in your home work.

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