State Fire Marshal’s Office recommends these steps to avoid winter fire hazards

OLYMPIA – With the winter season comes the risk of winter-related fire hazards.

More than 50% of all home heating fires involve a heat source being placed too close to flammable materials such as furniture, bedding and curtains, reported the National Fire Protection Association. Home heating fires in Washington are the third-leading known cause for fire fatalities on a five-year average, with two in 2023 alone. And over the last five years, home heating fires resulted in 7% of total fatalities.