CANDLE-LIT FIRES

As the popularity of candles grows, so does the incidence of fires in the home. According to the National Fire Protection Association, candles are responsible for starting more than 15,000 home fires each year, which is twice the number of recorded in 1980. An estimated 4% of all house fires are started by candles, and four out of ten candle-ignited fires start in the bedroom. Candle fires also occur most frequently in December, when 13% of the fires involve holiday decorations. Many of the fatalities caused by candle-lit fires occurred among people who were using candles to light homes in which the power had been shut off. Homeowners are urged to use flashlights for illumination and bulbs for decoration whenever possible.

With the holidays here, many people will be lighting candles in hallways, dining rooms, and living rooms. Candles add ambiance and warmth to any room, but they are also a fire hazard. Never leave a candle unattended, and be sure to have a fire extinguisher on each floor of your home. Never place a candle in reach of children or near combustibles such as curtains, draperies, and decorations.