Twenty-six Iowans have lost their lives in house fires so far in 2019 according to the U.S. Fire Administration. This Fire Prevention Week, keep yourself and your family safe by testing your smoke alarms. Also, make sure to inspect all of your heating sources. A damaged or aging heating source could trigger a fire. Heating sources should be checked annually by a professional. When cooking, keep your oven clean and do not leave cooking food unattended. Frequently check all cords in your home for damage, especially if you own animals. Exposed wires are dangerous fire hazards. Taking a few minutes to perform routine checks and maintenance could prevent a disaster.