Chief Christopher Coleman would like to remind community members of important candle safety tips during the holiday season.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, candle fires peak in December and January, with 12% of candle fires occurring in December and 10% in January. This past Saturday, Nov. 29, the North Attleborough Fire Department responded to 46B Clifton Street for a report of smoke in a building. Firefighters arrived to find a bedroom fire that had originated from an unattended candle. While the incident was accidental, it serves as an important reminder of the dangers of leaving candles burning unattended.
To ensure everyone’s safety this holiday season, the North Attleborough Fire Department would like to share the following tips courtesy of the National Fire Protection Association:
- Never leave a candle unattended. Blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed. Avoid using candles in bedrooms whenever possible.
- Keep children and pets away from lit candles. Consider using battery-operated candles around children.
- Keep matches and lighters stored in a locked cabinet at a high level.
- Keep candles at least a foot away from anything that can catch on fire.
- If using a candle, use a sturdy candle holder to prevent it from tipping over.
- Light candles carefully. Keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame.
- Don’t burn a candle all the way down — put it out before it gets too close to the holder or container.
- Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home.
- Keep a fire extinguisher handy just in case.
Anyone with questions regarding candle safety is encouraged to contact the North Attleboro Fire Department's Public Education Team at nafd_publiceducation@nattleboro.com.
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