Winter Brings Increased Fire Risk Across Tennessee

Winter is the most dangerous season for residential structure fires in Tennessee, according to state statistics, with fire departments reporting a 70 percent increase in home fire deaths compared to other times of the year. Smoking and cooking account for more than 21 percent of known causes of residential fires statewide, while more than 12 percent of fatal residential fires are linked specifically to smoking. Fire officials urge residents to make fire safety a priority during the winter months, noting that working smoke alarms provide the earliest warning and critical time to escape. Since 2012, more than 290,000 smoke alarms have been installed across Tennessee through safety programs, resulting in 510 verified saves. Residents can request a free smoke alarm through their local fire department or the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance.