During this time of year, when the weather frequently fluctuates, local rescue workers find themselves responding to more fires than usual.
In the last week alone, fires have broken out at the Target on Archer Road, the Thomas Hall dormitory on the UF campus and the Bivens Cove Apartments on 13th Street, among other places.
Deputy Fire Chief Tim Hayes, of Gainesville Fire Rescue, said January and February are the department's "busy months," primarily because the weather changes so often.
Krista Gonzalez, risk reduction specialist at GFR, said there are a few important fire safety tips to keep in mind during the winter months.
Dust and other flammable particles on a heating unit can cause a fire, Gonzalez said.
This is especially true if it's used infrequently.
Other flammable objects could include dry leaves, pine needles and critters clogged inside chimneys. They have a tendency to ignite, Gonzalez said.
She added that while many Gainesville houses are equipped with fireplaces, some people build homemade ones, which can be dangerous.
"We want to remind citizens that whenever they do any alterations to their house, that they make sure that it is done by a professional," Gonzalez said.
Also, due to the cold, more people are smoking cigarettes and lighting candles indoors.
When they are not extinguished, the smoldering ashes and flickering flames become fire hazards.
Thursday night's Bivens Cove fire began after candles were left burning in the bedroom of an apartment, according to the GFR investigation report.
"We say if you go out, blow out," Gonzalez said.
