A man died Sunday afternoon after a residential fire in the Back of the Yards neighborhood, according to Chicago police. Firefighters responded to a home in the 4700 block of South Damen Avenue at about 3:18 p.m. The occupant was taken to John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Authorities have not released the victim's name or age.
As reported by FOX 32 Chicago, officers and Chicago Fire Department crews found the fire at a multi-unit residence, and area detectives with the Chicago Police Department are now handling the investigation. The department told the station that the cause of the fire has not yet been determined. Cook County Health lists John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital as the county trauma center where the victim was taken.
Winter Heating Hazards
Investigators have not identified a cause, but winter heating sources, especially portable space heaters, are a frequent contributor to deadly home fires, national data shows. The National Fire Protection Association and the U.S. Fire Administration note that home heating fires peak in the cold months and that space heaters and heating stoves account for a large share of heating-related fire deaths.
Simple Steps To Reduce Risk
Fire safety guidance from federal agencies recommends keeping anything that can burn at least three feet away from heaters, plugging space heaters directly into wall outlets rather than extension cords or power strips, and turning them off when you leave a room or go to sleep. The U.S. Fire Administration also urges households to have working smoke alarms on every level and a practiced escape plan.
Investigation Continues
Chicago police say area detectives are still investigating the cause of the fire and have not released additional details or identified any other victims. As FOX 32 Chicago reported, officials have not yet disclosed the victim's age or name.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Chicago Police Department. This story will be updated as authorities release more details.
