Candle safety

Fires involving candles can occur if they are left burning unattended, you fall asleep without putting them out, you don't use the correct kind of holders or they are placed too close to curtains and furnishings.

• Never leave burning 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.
• Don’t move candles once they are lit.
• Do not burn several candles close togetheras this might cause the flame to flare.
• 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 put scented candles in a heat resistant holder. These candles are designed to liquefy when heated to maximise fragrance.
• Fit a smoke alarm and test it regularly. A working smoke alarm can buy you valuable time to get out, stay out and call 999.
• Make sure that everyone in your home knows what to do if a fire should occur - practise your escape route.