People across Bath are being warned about the dangers of candles, with Avon Fire & Rescue Service sharing important safety advice as they mark Candle Safety Week.
Social media has seen an increase in videos showing potentially dangerous candle “life hacks”
As winter approaches and cold nights draw in, many are opting to light candles.
Whether it be for an autumnal ambience, or to keep cosy and warm, candles can provide a seasonal glow and help decorate homes.
However, social media platforms such as TikTok and Pinterest have become increasingly full of ‘life hacks’ which are encouraging people to use candles dangerously or leave them unattended.
Over the past weekend, 22nd-23rd October, firefighters from the Kingswood and Hicks Gate fire stations attended a fire which is thought to have been caused by unattended candles.
Ben Thompson, who is Temporary Group Manager for Risk Reduction at AF&RS, said: “This was an unfortunate incident which thankfully ended with minimal harm to the occupants of the property.
“Social media and so-called ‘life hacks’ are encouraging people to create heating devices using household items such as plant pots and candles.
“These are dangerous, unregulated, and are liable to cause damage and injury.
“Candles should only be used according to the manufacturer’s instructions and using them in different ways can result in nasty accidents.
“If you’re lighting candles at home, fill out our free Home Fire Safety Checker tool to get personalised safety advice.”
Advice from Avon Fire & Rescue on lighting candles at home includes:
- Never leave burning candles unattended.
- 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 together as 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.
