Oct 9, 2026, 2:59 PM CT
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This week marks Fire Prevention Week (Oct. 4-10), a crucial reminder that protecting your home and loved ones from fire hazards requires consistent preparedness and everyday vigilance. So far in 2026 alone, Red Cross disaster teams across Wisconsin have responded to 606 home fires, highlighting the urgent need for families to prioritize key safety practices throughout their living space to minimize risks and ensure a rapid escape.
Creating and practicing a dedicated home fire escape plan at least twice a year ensures that every household member knows how to evacuate safely. In addition, working smoke alarms should be installed on every level of the home and tested monthly to provide critical early warnings. Everyday habits in the kitchen and living areas are equally vital: never leave cooking food unattended, keep flammable objects at least three feet away from heat sources, and always turn off space heaters before leaving a room or going to sleep.
Todd Coppernoll oversees local news for WRCO and WRCE radio in Richland Center. Having served Richland Center as Mayor for three terms, Todd brings a unique perspective, and a familiar voice to the news. The focus is local, and so is the reporter.
Adam Hess has been involved in radio broadcasting since 1990, with many of those years spent on the air at WRCO FM in Richland Center. Currently, Adam hosts the Weekend Wake-up and Prime Mover Saturdays on WRCO FM, jumps in and helps out with news duties, handles Social Media duties for WRCO and WRCE, and is the Director of Technology at a Southwest Wisconsin School District. Reach him at adam.hess@civicmedia.us.
