The U.S. has issued a "warning" after a former Super Bowl champion was found dead.
Former NFL player Barry Wilburn, who won a Super Bowl with the Washington Redskins, was found dead. He was found dead in a house fire. Wilburn, an eighth round NFL Draft pick out of Ole Miss, was 62 years old.
"Wilburn, 62, reportedly died in a house fire early Friday morning. According to reports, the cause of the fire remains under investigation," ABC 7 in Washington, D.C. reported.
The team confirmed his passing.
"We're saddened to learn of the passing of former Washington All-Pro and Super Bowl XXII champion Barry Wilburn. Sending our deepest condolences to his family and friends," the team announced.
Fires are surprisingly common during the winter, especially when space heaters and portable heating devices are used.
In the wake of the tragic deadly fire, the U.S. has issued a safety warning for everyone this winter.
Here are the safety tips to be mindful of:
- Keep heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn.
- Place heaters on a solid, flat surface.
- Use models with overheat protection and auto shut-off.
- Plug directly into a wall outlet. Never use an extension cord.
- Turn heaters off and unplug them when you leave the room or go to bed.
- Keep heaters out of walkways and away from children and pets.
- Never block an exit with a heater.
"TWO IN FIVE deaths in space heater fires involve portable electric space heaters, making safe use especially important. If you choose to use a space heater this season, please follow these precautions to keep your home and family safe," the alert reads.
May he rest in peace.