North Bay Fire & Emergency Services is reminding residents about the dangers of leaving household appliances running while unattended. This after two recent fires locally. Officials say both incidents involved oscillating fans that had been left on when the residents were not home. “In each case, the fan malfunctioned and caused a fire, resulting in property damage and significant risk to the building’s residents,” states a release. Fire officials remind the public:Never leave oscillating fans, space heaters, or similar devices operating when you are not at home or when you are sleepingInspect appliances regularly for frayed cords, dust buildup, or signs of overheatingUnplug small appliances when not in use to reduce fire riskThey add unattended electrical devices can fail without warning, and even a small malfunction can quickly escalate into a serious fire.