The American Red Cross responded to 12 fires in Central Illinois over the weekend. (WJBC file photo)

By Adam Studzinski

BLOOMINGTON – The American Red Cross is offering a few fire safety tips after responding to a dozen fires in Central Illinois over the weekend.

A fire in Clinton involved a fatality. Spokeswoman Kelly Formoso said making an escape plan can go a long way.

"We want you to have two exits from every room. Make sure those windows do open because there have been a couple rescues too with those fires," said Formoso. "There's just so many things you can do, but most importantly is just to prepare for a possible fire."

Having an escape plan is especially important in the event of an electrical fire which started inside a wall.

"If they're in the wall you might not see it until the fire has gone quite long and then it's very dangerous once the smoke starts coming," Formoso said.

Formoso added keeping a calm mind is also helpful.

"It's important to keep breathing, take those deep breathes. With kids, we talk about coping skills," said Formoso. "Talking about making sure that you're taking a deep breath, getting your heart rate down so that you can think clearly."

Formoso said to assist others in getting out of the residence, but only if you know you can safely get them and yourself out.

Adam Studzinski can be reached at [email protected].