Sen. Bertino-Tarrant urges residents to stay safe and warm

PLAINFIELD- As the temperatures drop this winter season, State Senator Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant (D-Shorewood) reminds Will County residents to check and change batteries in household smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

“The new year is a perfect opportunity for residents of the 49th State Senate District to test safety devices to reduce home fire fatalities,” Bertino-Tarrant said. “While changing calendars and organizing for the new year, please take a second to change and check batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.”

The National Fire Protection Association reports that heating is the second leading cause of home fires, deaths and injuries across the nation. December, January and February are the peak months for heating fires.

Residents should remember to consider home safety while using space heaters during the winter months. Space heaters are the type of equipment most often involved in home heating equipment fires, and account for two of every five fires. Keeping heating equipment away from flammable household items is essential.

“While we battle dangerously low temperatures this winter, it is important that we exercise proper safety precautions to keep our families safe,” Bertino-Tarrant said. “Please don’t forget to check on elderly neighbors or friends to ensure they have a warm place to stay. There are warming centers open throughout Will County to serve area residents and keep them safe and warm during these harsh winter months.”

Bertino-Tarrant has a list of warming centers throughout the 49th State Senate District on her website at www.SenatorBertinoTarrant.com or residents can reach out to her Plainfield Office at (815) 254-4211 for more information.