Houghton Fire Department encourages residents practice fire prevention during annual awareness week

When the temperatures cool outside, heaters across the Upper Peninsula kick back on. Each winter house fire tends to increase during the winter partly due to homeowners using supplementary sources of heat. As well as other common causes of house fires such as cooking accidents or faulty electrical connections.

Today comes toward the end of Houghton Fire Department’s annual fire prevention week. Throughout town residents may have received a helpful brochure sharing tips for preventing fires in your home. This time of the year firefighters suggest checking batteries on smoke detectors, and expiration dates on fire extinguishers, work with your family to develop a comprehensive fire safety plan so all know what to do in the case of a fire. The fire department also suggests residents check on smoke detectors to make sure carbon monoxide detectors are operational. Or install a carbon monoxide detector in the home or apartment unit if not already plugged in. If families have young children in the home, keep matches and lighters in a safe location.

Throughout the year the Houghton Fire department offers fire prevention programming by request with community organizations, perform fire inspections, and organizes fire safety and fire extinguisher training. Learn more about the Houghton Fire Department online.