As cooler weather begins to settle over Oklahoma, state officials are urging residents to take precautionary steps to safeguard their homes from fire hazards this winter. The warning comes from Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready, who has issued a reminder that while the arrival of autumn may bring relief from summer heat, it also signals a period of heightened fire risk.
“It’s finally starting to feel like fall in Oklahoma! Temperatures are coming down (slowly), so that means before too long, we will be turning our heaters on for the first time in months,” Commissioner Mulready said. “Before enjoying the transition to fall and winter, take the time now to protect your family and home from house fires.”
Leading Causes of House Fires
According to data from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking remains the leading cause of residential fires, followed by heating equipment and electrical distribution or lighting systems such as wiring, outlets, and cords. Between 2019 and 2023, the NFPA found that most home fires and related injuries originated in kitchens, underlining the need for caution in households as residents turn to indoor heating and cooking during colder months.
Mulready said the statistics highlight where vigilance is most needed. “This information gives us a good idea of where to be the most vigilant,” he said.
Practical Prevention Measures
To help homeowners reduce the risk of accidental fires, the Commissioner outlined a series of straightforward safety tips. Chief among them is never leaving stoves, ovens, fireplaces or space heaters unattended, particularly overnight or when leaving the house.
Other key recommendations include:
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Avoid using stoves or ovens as heating sources, which poses a dual threat of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning.
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Install smoke alarms on every level of a home, test them monthly, and replace batteries or outdated units as needed.
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Keep fire extinguishers within reach — particularly in the kitchen and near exits.
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Maintain safe distances of at least three feet between flammable objects and heating devices.
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Plug space heaters directly into wall outlets rather than extension cords or power strips.
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Inspect chimneys and fireplaces annually and use screens to prevent sparks from escaping.
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Hire qualified electricians to assess wiring in older homes.
Mulready also reminded residents not to overload circuits, use damaged cords, or rely on uncertified electrical products. He advised using surge protectors that meet safety standards and unplugging devices when not in use.
Preparing for the Unexpected
In addition to physical safety measures, the Commissioner encouraged homeowners to review their insurance coverage ahead of the winter season. Ensuring policies are up to date can make recovery faster and less stressful should a fire occur.
“Also, don’t forget to take the time to create or update your home inventory! This is something you can easily and quickly do over a weekend, and it will save you time and hassle if you ever must file a claim,” he said. “Upload your inventory with any photos and videos you take of your belongings to the cloud so you can always have access to it.”
A well-documented home inventory can assist insurance adjusters in processing claims efficiently and ensures homeowners receive fair compensation for lost property.
Support and Resources
Mulready emphasised that prevention remains the best defence against fire damage, especially as the state enters colder months when heaters, fireplaces and electrical systems are used more intensively. “The change of seasons is upon us, which means increased risk of house fires as the temperatures drop,” he said. “Some quick prevention can protect you, your loved ones and your home all winter.”
The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) continues to provide public resources and assistance for homeowners seeking to understand their insurance policies or improve household safety. Residents can access information via the OID website at oid.ok.gov or call 800-522-0071 for further guidance.
With fire services across the United States reporting spikes in domestic fire incidents during winter, Mulready’s appeal serves as a timely reminder that a few small precautions can make the difference between safety and disaster.
By combining practical prevention, regular maintenance, and up-to-date insurance cover, Oklahoma households can ensure that the warmth of the coming season remains a comfort — not a risk.
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