The Richmond Fire Department is urging residents to prioritize fire safety ahead of the holidays after a weekend house fire killed two people.

The incident marked the department’s second fire-related fatality response this year and comes as officials warn that the risk of home fires increases during the winter months. Heating equipment, cooking, candles and decorative lighting are among the most common causes of residential fires nationwide, according to fire officials. 

Heating and cooking equipment that burn fuel can also produce carbon monoxide, which can be deadly without proper ventilation or working carbon monoxide alarms. The department noted that smoke alarms can reduce the risk of fire-related deaths in a home by more than 60% when properly installed and maintained. 

“Any loss of life is devastating, and this incident serves as a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly fires can turn deadly,” Richmond Fire Chief Jeffrey Segal said in a statement. “We encourage everyone to be mindful of fire safety and take proactive steps to reduce risks in their homes.” 

Fire officials said residents may have as little as two minutes to escape once a smoke alarm sounds, making preparation critical. The department recommends several steps to reduce fire risks during the winter and holiday season, including keeping combustible materials at least 3 feet away from heating equipment such as space heaters, fireplaces and furnaces. 

Other recommendations include using only one heat-producing appliance per wall outlet, checking electrical cords to ensure they are not placed under carpets or across doorways, and turning off portable heaters when leaving a room or going to sleep. Officials also advise having heating equipment inspected annually by qualified professionals. 

The department urged residents to remain in the kitchen while cooking and to never leave food unattended. For holiday decorating, officials recommend using flame-resistant or flame-retardant decorations and keeping lit candles away from decorations and other combustible materials. 

Residents are also encouraged to test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms at least once a month. The Richmond Fire Department provides and installs smoke detectors free of charge. Anyone in need of a smoke detector can contact Fire Prevention at (804) 646-1526.