The American Red Cross was called to assist a family over the weekend after a house fire in the Pennville community of Chattooga County. While no further details about the fire have been released, the Red Cross is reminding local families that home fires increase sharply during the holiday season, often caused by cooking accidents, unattended candles, or unsafe decorations.

Alicia Doherty, Regional Executive, says one in five people the Red Cross helps after home fires are assisted during the holiday months. She stresses that fires can move quickly, giving families as little as two minutes to escape, and encourages everyone to practice home fire escape drills until all family members can get out safely in that time.

The Red Cross is offering several reminders for holiday safety:
Stay in the kitchen when cooking, keep children and pets at least three feet away from stoves, and keep anything flammable away from heat sources. December is the peak month for candle fires, and officials warn to never leave candles or space heaters unattended.

Families are also urged to test smoke alarms monthly, keep alarms on every level of the home, and install them near sleeping areas. For those unable to afford smoke alarms or install them, the Red Cross may be able to help.

More safety information and fire escape planning resources can be found at RedCross.org/fire.