In our efforts to pass on safety information through our site we'd like to let you know about

Candle Safety Week.

18-24 November 2013

With the festive season upon us and Winter setting in, candles around a room give off a beautiful glow and may add festive cheer and scents. It's important to remember however that unattended, an open flame can be a huge fire risk.

Even while taking precautions you should be prepared just in case the worse should happen. Make sure you have a smoke alarm fitted(your local Fire station will do this for free) and test it regularly. It will give you vital time to escape, when out, stay out and call 999.

Tips to stay safe.

Never leave lit candles unattended: extinguish candles when you leave the room, making sure they're out completely at night.

Don't move candles once they are lit: you may drop the candle and it set light to something.

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.

Do not burn several candles close together: 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 and dripping.

Put candles out with a snuffer or a spoon: sparks can fly if you blow them out.

Always put scented candles in a heat resistant holder: these candles are designed to turn to liquid when heated to maximise fragrance.

Thanks for reading, and stay safe this festive season.