As the evenings get colder and darker many people like to make their homes more cosy in the evenings by lighting a few candles.
But, in the UK, there are over 150 serious fires each year that are caused by candles.
To make sure that you are not a victim of a candle fire make sure you adhere to the following advice:
– Never leave burning candles unattended. Put burning candles out when you leave the room, and make sure they’re completely out at night.
– Always place your candles/tea lights in a suitable fire resistant candleholder.
– Always put the candleholder on a heat resistant surface like a ceramic plate (tea lights can melt plastic surfaces such as the top of a television or side of a bath).
– Place candles carefully. Make sure they are on a stable surface, out of reach of pets and children, and keep them away from flammable objects like curtains, furniture, bedding and books.
– Don’t move candles once they have been lit.
– Burn candles in a well ventilated room, out of draughts, vents or air currents. This will help prevent rapid or uneven burning, soot and dripping.
– Always leave at least four inches (10cm) between burning candles/tea lights and never place them under shelves or other enclosed spaces. Make sure there’s at least three feet (one metre) between a candle and any surface above it.
– It is recommended that a candle ‘snuffer’ or a metal spoon be used to put the candle/tea light out.
And make sure that you are protected by a smoke alarm and have a fire extinguisher in the house should items in the house catch fire.