Editorial: Take precautions to avoid being a house fire victim

Winter doesn't have a monopoly on house fires; it just feels that way sometimes.

There's something about cold-weather months that seems to make fires a bit more prevalent. Sadly, an early-morning house fire in Addison took the lives of an elderly man and woman Monday. And, we've seen a spate of other devastating fires in just the last few weeks, in Elgin, Lake Villa, Wauconda, Hoffman Estates and Naperville, among other local communities.

Holiday decorations, frozen pipes, fireplaces and the need to stay warm when the temperature falls far below freezing provide a combustible mix for many houses and businesses in the suburbs. In combination or individually, these factors can be culprits in sparking a blaze that can cause destruction, injury and, as in Addison, death.

Survivors of a house fire often describe frightening moments before and after the first flames appear. They tell of what it's like to wonder where they'll go to live how they'll cope with the loss of a lifetime of memories and personal possessions.

So, how can you keep your house from being next? Fire experts recently offered our Lauren Rohr several tips that represent a mix of common sense, awareness and precaution. They're worth repeating.

• Space heaters: The devices should always be plugged directly into a wall outlet and should never be left unattended. Combustible materials should be kept away from space heaters. Buy a unit that automatically shuts off if it tips over or malfunctions.

• Fireplaces: Have your chimney cleaned and inspected by a qualified professional. Open the flue before starting the fire and make sure to have a sturdy screen to prevent sparks from entering the living space. Place cooled ashes in a metal container outside the house.

• Warming the house: Never use kitchen appliances as supplemental heating devices. A range or oven can be a source of toxic fumes, and burning charcoal indoors can produce lethal amounts of carbon monoxide.

• Decorations: Candles can be hazardous when they burn down too low, are left unattended or are burning too close to flammable materials. Consider using flameless candles.

• Frozen pipes: If pipes freeze, never try to thaw them using propane or a kerosene heater. Call a plumber instead.

• Fire safety equipment: Working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be placed on each level of the house and near sleeping spaces. A certified, multipurpose fire extinguisher can be used to eliminate fires confined to small areas, such as in wastebaskets.

• Prevent a fire from spreading: Closing doors is the simplest and most efficient way to contain a fire and prevent it from spreading.

It's unclear that winter conditions specifically contributed to the tragedy in Addison, where the fire appears to have started in the kitchen. But the season does pose unique risks. Be sure to take precautions that will reduce them for you and your family.