March 12. By Dave Vieser. Local and statewide fIre officials are asking residents to be wary of fires in light of so many people staying home.

Although there were 1,586 local fire calls in 2020, none of the fires were fatal and only one injury was sustained during the entire year.

Statewide, there was a 41 percent increase in injuries and deaths due to fire during the first two months of this year.

Fire officials offer these safety tips:

—Test your smoke alarms monthly.

—Practice a family escape plan so that all can get out in less than 2 minutes.

—Install smoke alarms on every floor of your house.

—Develop a rally point away from your house where family members can meet after evacuating

More info: Contact the local Red Cross Preparedness Team by emailing GCARPrepares@redcross.org, calling 704-347-8346 or visit redcross.org/fire for more information.