DES MOINES, Iowa —

As temperatures plunge across Iowa, the Des Moines Fire Department is reminding residents that winter weather brings heightened fire risks — and unique obstacles for fire crews racing to keep the community safe.

Fire Captain Laura Lyons says the department typically sees an increase in cold-weather hazards once heaters, furnaces, and appliances are running around the clock. Many winter fires, she says, are completely preventable with a few simple precautions.

Space Heaters: Small Devices, Big Danger

Space heaters remain one of the top causes of winter home fires. Lyons emphasizes three key rules:

Keep heaters at least three feet from anything that can burn — including bedding, curtains, and furniture.

Plug them directly into a wall outlet . “Don’t use extension c

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