SULLIVAN — Sullivan County Fire Coordinator John Hauschild said in 2020 there were 27 structure fires. So far this year there have been 42.

“There has definitely been an increase,” Hauschild said. “Due to what, I don't know.”

He said it could be a combination of things, such as people being at home more and using other forms of heat due to the high cost of fuel.

He cautioned that space heaters should be kept clear of curtains, furniture, clothing and anything that's ignitable.

Also don't overload electrical outlets, especially if using a space heater.

“People need to be observant,” he said. “Take precautions and just be careful.”

Commissioner of Public Safety Rick Sauer said they are still analyzing the data on what's causing the fires but, like Hauschild, says it could be a multitude of things.

For instance, people might be out of work because of the COVID-19 pandemic and can't afford to do preventative maintenance.

“We've had to call the Red Cross several times for people who have been displaced who needed housing and clothes,” Sauer said.

One of the most important things to keep your home safe from fire is preventative maintenance on wood stoves, chimneys, dryer vents, etc.

In addition, it's important to have a plan in place for all household members in case of emergency.

People can use the term EDITH: exit drills in the home. Also make sure that smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors have working batteries.

While the cause of the many fires this year may still be unknown, the sheer amount of them is ringing the alarm.

Sauer said Liberty saw two working structure fires at the same exact time on January 16, which is unusual.

“You hardly ever see that,” he said.

Right before press time yesterday, there were reportedly two structure fires in Liberty and Parksville.

Fire companies are equipped to handle such fires, but are facing the problem of a declining membership of volunteers - a dilemma that's occurring across the country.

“The fire departments are holding their own, if they need more assistance they'll call mutual aid, so we're seeing more calls for mutual aid,” Sauer said.

Depending on the area, mutual aid can be called from surrounding Orange, Delaware and Ulster counties and Pike and Wayne counties in Pennsylvania.

Departments are also responding to other winter hazards such as car accidents and roof collapses from snow.

Both Hauschild and Sauer warn people to be careful if they shovel snow off their roof, and if they can't do it safely to hire a professional.

With the large amount of snow we've already seen this winter, and rain in the forecast, it will get heavier and become more dangerous.