Snuff out candle fire risk, say West Sussex firefighters

Firefighters are asking people to take extra care and snuff out the risk of fire in their homes this Candle Fire Safety Week (November 18 to 24).
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JPEt Something Different xmas decs

Candles started 14 fires and resulted in five injured people in the county in the last municipal year.

Jackie Boyle, Community Fire Safety Officer for West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service (WSFRS), said: “It’s tempting to be complacent about burning candles and tea lights but left unattended or too close to flammable materials they can easily catch light, the fire can spread quickly and leave a trail of devastation in your home.

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“It’s so important to think about where you are placing your lit candles; they should always be away from curtains and out of the reach of pets and children. Most importantly, remember to extinguish your candles if you leave the room, even if it’s only for a moment - it really does only take a moment for a fire to start.”

WSFRS offers the following advice to those using candles or tea lights:

. Never leave a burning candle unattended

. Always place candles and tea lights well away from curtains, furniture or flammable materials and always out of draughts

. Always place candles upright in suitable holders on a stable surface

. Keep candles out of reach of children and pets

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. Never put tea lights on top of TV sets or other plastic surrounds like baths

. Ensure that tea lights and candles are placed in suitable heat resistant holders

. Test It Tuesday! Working smoke alarms save lives - so test yours each week

For a full range of home fire safety advice call our Community Fire Safety team on 01243 642878 or visit www.westsussex.gov.uk/fire