“In the year 2024, the dedicated team at the Vicksburg Fire Department (VFD) took a significant step towards enhancing fire safety by installing a total of 151 smoke alarms in 54 homes throughout the city,” Stamps said. “This initiative aims to protect residents by ensuring early detection of smoke and potential fires, ultimately contributing to safer living environments within the community.”

Stamps reported 2024’s numbers after an active start to 2025 that has included a number of damaging fries across town. Last week, a fire at the vacant Scottish Inn on Clay Street destroyed the hotel just after 7 a.m. While that fire’s origin remains under investigation, a fire Friday morning at an unoccupied home was attributed to an overloaded power strip.

Stamps and other emergency officials have been vocal about fire safety as cold weather sets in in Warren. County.

“As the winter months approach, the cozy atmosphere of our homes invites us to relax and unwind; however, it’s essential to recognize that this season also brings an alarming increase in home fires,” Stamps said. “Statistics reveal that home fires significantly spike during December, January, and February, with half of all heating-related fires occurring in these chilly months. The comfort of warmth must be balanced with a vigilant approach to fire safety.”

Stamps said the numbers show a dramatic spike in fires as temperatures drop, making safely heating homes the best way to prevent accidents.

“Heating equipment is a primary contributor to these fires, responsible for one out of every six home fires and one out of every five associated fatalities,” he said. “To ensure your safety and that of your loved ones, take proactive measures to safeguard your home against the dangers posed by winter heating.”

Stamps said some basic safety tips include:

• Keep anything that can burn at least three feet from any heat source, like fireplaces, wood stoves, radiators, or space heaters.
• Plug only one heat-producing appliance (like a space heater) into an electrical outlet at a time.
• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that burns.
• Think about using battery-operated flameless candles.
• Have a qualified professional clean and inspect chimneys and vents every year.
• Store cooled ashes in a tightly covered metal container and keep it outside at least 10 feet from homes and any nearby buildings.
• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home. Also, install alarms in the basement.

Stamps said VFD is ready to install free smoke detectors in any home in need of the devices.

“Enhance your home’s safety with a fantastic opportunity from the Vicksburg Fire Department,” Stamps said. “Take advantage of free smoke alarms and professional installation to better protect your family. Act now. Safety is just a phone call away.”

Anyone in need of a smoke detector may call the VFD Central Fire Station at 601- 636-1603.