Heat and electricity are a crucial part of making it through the Montana winter. Fire officials caution taking extra care to prevent a potential tragedy.

Helena Fire Department assistant chief Mike Chambers says fire safety awareness around the holidays is key and being aware of heat-related hazards. That means fireplace and chimney safety, and electric heater safety. Winter home fire safety is important to avoid tragedy

“A little bit of safety is good, a lot of safety is better,” Chambers said.

Safety around Christmas trees is also something to take note of. On Monday evening, around 6 p.m., Helena Fire was dispatched to a home where a resident was lighting candles near their Christmas tree, and the match fell in between gifts, setting the tree and nearby presents on fire.

“It's awfu

See Full Page