Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service has issued a candle safety warning, after fire crews were called out to a bedroom fire last night.
The fire occurred when a candle had been allowed to burn down in its glass holder, overheating and subsequently shattering the glass.
The Service has issued the following advice for the safe use of candles:
- Never leave lit candles unattended. Put burning candles out when you leave the room, and make sure they’re out completely at night.
- Place your candles carefully. Make sure they are on a stable surface, out of the reach of pets and children, and keep them away from flammable objects like curtains, furniture, bedding and books. Never place on baths, televisions, set-top boxes or anything else plastic.
- Don’t move candles once they are lit, and don’t let them burn right down.
- Don’t burn several candles close together as this might cause the flame to flare.
- Burn candles in a well-ventilated room, out of drafts, vents or air currents. This will help prevent rapid or uneven burning, soot and dripping.
- Always put scented candles in a heat resistant holder. These candles are designed to liquefy when heated to maximise fragrance.
- Fit smoke alarms on every level of your home and test them regularly. A working smoke alarm can buy you valuable time.
- Make sure that everyone in your home knows what to do if a fire should occur, including practising your escape routes.
A safe alternative to consider is artificial candles. There are many different types, including battery powered, but very realistic, wax candles with a ‘flickering’ flame.