During Fire Prevention Week, Red Cross Wisconsin Offers Tips for Families to Combat House Fires

Saturday, October 10th, 2026 -- 9:00 AM

This week, during Fire Prevention Week (Oct. 4-10), the American Red Cross of Wisconsin is urging families to take simple steps to help prevent home fires and ensure they can escape safely if one occurs.

Since the beginning of 2026, Red Cross disaster teams across Wisconsin have responded to 606 home fires, helping hundreds of people recover from one of the most common disasters facing local communities.

"Home fires remain the most frequent disaster we respond to, both in Wisconsin and across the country," said Catherine Rabenstine, chief executive officer of the Red Cross of Wisconsin.

"The good news is that many fires are preventable. Taking a few simple precautions, maintaining working smoke alarms and practicing a home fire escape plan can help save lives."

Top Five Things Families Should Do Today 

• Create and practice a home fire escape plan twice a year. 

• Install smoke alarms on every level and test them monthly. 

• Never leave cooking food unattended. 

• Keep anything flammable at least three feet from heat sources. 

• Turn off space heaters when leaving a room or going to sleep. 

“Fire Prevention Week is a great reminder to take a few minutes today to test your smoke alarms, review your escape plan and identify potential fire hazards in your home," Rabenstine said. "Those simple steps can make all the difference during an emergency."

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.