Topics Related to Fire Prevention & Education

In recognition of 2022 National Burn Awareness Week, Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey encourages families to practice safe-cooking habits.

National Burn Awareness Week runs Feb. 6-12. This year’s theme from the American Burn Association is "Burning Issues in the Kitchen."

As North Carolina braces for what could be yet another round of winter weather this weekend, Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey urges everyone to keep fire safety in mind, especially when using portable heaters.

In the first four weeks of 2022, 11 people have already lost their lives in home fires in North Carolina. Last year, there were 134 fire deaths across the state.

With the threat of wintry weather across the state this weekend, there is a chance that many North Carolinians will be without power in extremely low temperatures. Insurance Commissioner and State Fire Marshal Mike Causey reminds people who use portable generators or alternative heating sources about the increased risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning and fire. 

Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey, noting that wintry weather could touch our state this weekend, urges North Carolinians to use extra caution when using portable heaters.

Many people will be using fireplaces and portable space heaters to stay warm. Unfortunately, portable heaters can ignite, as one did in New York City Sunday, where 17 people, including eight children, died.

North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey on Thursday, Jan. 6, will honor a 9-year-old girl whose quick actions in late November 2021 saved both her sister’s life and her own life.

In addition, Commissioner Causey, who is also the State Fire Marshal, will be distributing grant checks to some of the state’s neediest fire departments in Robeson, Bladen and Columbus counties.

Heroism award

In recognition of Winter Weather Preparedness Week, which runs from Dec. 5-11 in North Carolina, Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey urges families to make preparations now for potentially dangerous weather this winter.

“Although North Carolina isn’t necessarily known for its harsh winters, that doesn’t mean you should let your guard down,” said Commissioner Causey, who is also the State Fire Marshal. “Between holiday traveling, cooking and other potential fire risks, it is so important for families to keep safety in mind this winter.”

With the Thanksgiving holiday coming up and Christmas right around the corner, Insurance Commissioner and State Fire Marshal Mike Causey encourages families to practice safe cooking now and throughout the year.

“It’s easy to lose focus when entertaining family and friends,” said Commissioner Causey. “But while you’re planning your holiday menu, make sure to plan for fire safety especially when cooking, baking or even lighting holiday candles.”

As the end of daylight-saving time approaches on Sunday, Nov. 7, Insurance Commissioner and State Fire Marshal Mike Causey reminds North Carolinians to practice this life-saving habit:  When you change your clock this weekend for the end of daylight-saving time, remember to change the battery in your smoke alarm.

In recognition of Fire Prevention Week 2021, which runs from Oct. 3-9, Insurance Commissioner and State Fire Marshal Mike Causey is urging everyone to uphold this year’s campaign theme, “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety.”

“It’s important to learn the different sounds of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. When an alarm makes noise — a beeping sound or a chirping sound — you must take action!” said Commissioner Causey. “Make sure everyone in the home understands the sounds of the alarms and knows how to respond.”

North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey will host a hot cars demonstration, visit children participating in the Inferno Fire Camp and present ceremonial grant checks to five volunteer fire departments in need during a trip to McDowell County on Thursday, Aug. 5.

In conjunction with the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office and McDowell County Parks and Recreation, Commissioner Causey, who also serves as Safe Kids NC Chair, will host a hot cars demonstration at the McDowell County Parks and Recreation Center to show the dangers of leaving a child in a hot car.