Fire Marshal Urges Candle Safety

Fire Marshal Bill Halstead is warning the public that fires caused by candle flames in one-family and two-family houses, in mobile homes, and in apartment buildings have been in increasing in frequency across the country.

December historically has been a time of year when there are many more candle-caused fires than during other months.

The winter holiday season is the peak period for candle sales, an item whose use in homes has increased markedly during the past decade, according to the fire marshal.

Candle safety requires that people extinguish all candles when leaving a room or going to sleep; keep candles away from flammable objects such as clothing, books, paper, curtains, Christmas trees, and holiday decorations; use sturdy candle holders that will not easily tip over, that are made of nonflammable materials, and are large enough to contain wax drippings; do not put candles in windows, where blinds and curtains can close over the candles; candleholders must be placed on sturdy, uncluttered surfaces; do not use candles where children or pets can knock them over.

The fire marshal urges that candles be kept up and away from the reach of children. Children should never be left unattended in a room with a candle. Children should not sleep in rooms with candles. Do not allow children or teenagers to have candles in their bedrooms. Candles, matches, and cigarette lighters must be stored up and away out of children’s sight and reach, preferably in locked cabinets.

The fire marshal urges that people use flashlights, whenever possible, during electrical outages, not candles.

Mr Halstead urges that people avoid carrying lit candles. Also, do not use a candle when searching for items in a confined space.