State Fire Marshal warns of winter fire risk

By Antonio Coleman

CADILLAC Dropping temperatures are bringing higher fire risks as homeowners work to heat their homes this winter.

State Fire Marshal Richard Miller is urging extreme caution as deadly home fires are on the rise in Michigan this winter.

Just two weeks into 2015, and were already seeing an increase in the number of home fires and related fatalities, Miller said. Were especially seeing more fires in modular or mobile homes and apartments, injuring or taking the lives of children and the elderly, as residents look for alternative sources of heat and try to keep warm.

Cadillac Fire Department Captain Fred Osborn said space heaters near combustibles and poor chimney maintenance are among the most common reasons fire crews generally see more fires in the winter. Faulty wiring and wood stoves have also led to a few fires this winter.

In early January, firefighters battled a house fire on 24 Road near Meauwataka in Wexford County. Homeowner Jeff Okros said he believed the fire started in the familys wood-burning stove. But that wasnt the only blaze firefighters battled this month.

Firefighters also responded to a house fire on Mitchell Street in Cadillac. An investigation revealed that the fire had originated in electrical wiring within the wall of the main floor bedroom, Cadillac Fire Department Lt. Mark Near said.

Dexter Carrick, owner of Docs Electric in Traverse City, said flickering or dimming lights and continuously blown circuit breakers can be two common signs of potential wiring problems in a home. Oftentimes, Carrick said, homeowners make the mistake of attempting to repair electrical wiring problems themselves. Homeowners unfamiliar with repairing faulty wiring should always consult a professional, he said, because attempting to repair home electrical problems yourself could lead to additional repairs and potential fire hazards.

If youre making connections on wires, you need to have them tight so they dont loosen up, because a loose connection could lead to overheating or a potential fire, Carrick said. People try to fix their wiring themselves and get in over their heads.

Having a licensed electrician inspect the electrical system to make sure it meets applicable Michigan Electrical Code requirements can prevent potential electrical fires. The State Fire Marshal also provided a few additional fire safety tips, including having furnaces inspected to ensure controls are working properly.

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State Fire Marshal warns of winter fire risk