A family in West Columbia, South Carolina, was displaced by a house fire on North Brown Street, affecting four people who are now receiving Red Cross support for shelter, finances, food, and clothing. The incident underscores South Carolina’s frequent home fires, averaging six daily statewide with a 30% winter uptick often linked to space heaters.
Fire Prevention Tips
Follow Red Cross guidelines to minimize risks: Never leave space heaters unattended, place them on hard, nonflammable surfaces away from rugs or bedding, and plug directly into wall outlets. Keep kids, pets, and flammables at least three feet from heaters; avoid using ovens or stoves for warmth.
Additional Precautions
Extinguish fireplace embers fully before bed, use screens, and never leave fires unattended. Schedule annual inspections for furnaces, chimneys, and stoves by professionals to catch hazards early. These steps address common winter threats in areas like South Carolina’s Lowcountry.
