Local Fire Chiefs Urge Caution During Frigid Week

Temperatures expected to begin rising on Sunday after several days of dangerously cold weather.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 1:47pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

With frigid temperatures expected to continue through the weekend, local fire chiefs in Scranton and Wilkes-Barre are reminding residents to take precautions when using alternative heating sources like space heaters to stay warm. They warn of the fire risks associated with improper use of these devices and urge people to clear snow from fire hydrants and check on elderly neighbors.

Why it matters

Extreme cold weather can increase the risk of home fires if people use unsafe heating methods. Fire officials want to prevent injuries and property damage by educating the public on best practices for staying warm during frigid conditions.

The details

Fire chiefs advise keeping space heaters at least 3 feet away from anything flammable, using them directly plugged into an outlet rather than an extension cord, and never leaving them unattended. They also caution against using open flames to thaw frozen pipes, which can also start fires. Residents are encouraged to check on elderly neighbors, clear snow from fire hydrants, and ensure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.

  • Temperatures are expected to remain frigid through the weekend, with highs only reaching 14 degrees Fahrenheit on Friday and overnight lows dipping to -9 degrees.
  • A cold weather advisory will remain in effect until 9 a.m. on Sunday.
  • Temperatures are forecast to begin rising overnight Sunday into Monday, with lows finally reaching the 20s.

The players

John Judge

Scranton Fire Chief.

Jay Delaney

Wilkes-Barre Fire Chief.

Bryan Greenblatt

National Weather Service meteorologist.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“A lot of times in this cold weather, people are using alternative heating sources improperly, which can lead to fires. Another problem is people trying to thaw their pipes with open flames. Putting any very hot items near combustibles can mean fire.”

— John Judge, Scranton Fire Chief (The Times-Tribune)

“An extension cord is not part of a home's electrical system.”

— Jay Delaney, Wilkes-Barre Fire Chief (The Times-Tribune)

“You might be getting snow piling up outside the house blocking up exhaust systems and backing up exhaust inside the house. You want to make sure that your CO detectors are working, especially if you have any gas-fired appliances.”

— John Judge, Scranton Fire Chief (The Times-Tribune)

What’s next

The forecast indicates temperatures will begin rising above freezing overnight Sunday into Monday, which could lead to ice jams and flooding concerns in the area.

The takeaway

This cold snap serves as a critical reminder for residents to take proper safety precautions when using alternative heating sources and to check on vulnerable neighbors during extreme weather conditions. Staying vigilant can help prevent fires and other cold-weather related emergencies.