News Release from: Oregon State Fire Marshal
HOLIDAY CANDLE SAFETY REMINDER: BEFORE YOU GO OUT, BLOW IT OUT!
State Fire Marshal Randy Simpson reminds Oregonians candle-caused fires are preventable. “Although candles may be a part of holiday tradition in many homes, you should be sure to always keep an eye on them,” advises Simpson. “Remember, when lighting a candle in your home you are creating an open flame and it’s easy for it to quickly get out of control.”
In the five-year period from 2004 through 2008, there were 584 candle-related fires in Oregon resulting in 14 civilian deaths, 71 civilian injuries, 22 firefighter injuries and estimated property losses of nearly $16 million. Over this same five-year period, 43% of candle-related fires occurred during the three-week period from December 17 through January 8.
“Oregonians also need to remember, candles are not recommended to replace flashlights or battery- operated lanterns during a power outage. Too often, lighted candles are left unattended in rooms or when people go to sleep,” adds Simpson.
The Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal offers the following tips on candle safety:
. Blow out all candles before leaving the room or before going to sleep.
. Keep candles away from things that burn. Keep candles at least one foot away from combustibles including clothing, curtains, upholstered furniture, greenery, and decorations.
. Always use a sturdy metal, glass or ceramic candleholder. Make sure the candle holder is big enough to catch dripping wax.
. Place candles out of reach of small children and pets.
. Keep candles out of high traffic areas.
. Trim wicks to one-quarter inch before lighting.
. Avoid candles with items embedded in them such as twigs, flowers or leaves. These items can ignite or even explode.
. Maintain working smoke alarms on every level of your home, outside each sleeping area and in every bedroom.
More home fire safety information is available at http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/CommEd_FireSafety_Program.shtml.
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Contact Info: Rich Hoover 503-934-8217 or 503-370-0033, pager
