Fire Service encourages residents to use LED candles
Essex County Fire and Rescue Service is encouraging Essex residents to swap wax candles for LED candles to help minimise the risk of candle fires as the weather gets colder and darker.
During the colder months, the Service often sees a rise in house fires, often caused by chimneys, candles and families being at home more.
Each year, candles are the cause of more than 300 injuries across the UK.
Will Newman, Head of Prevention at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said: “While a flickering candle can feel cosy, the naked flame can quickly cause devastation if the candle is left to burn unattended or too near to flammable surfaces like curtains.
“Our top tip this year is to swap your traditional candles for LED / battery candles. These are a low cost, safer and a renewable way to create the same atmosphere and have peace of mind.”
If you are going to be using candles, the Service recommends you blow the candle out every time you need to leave the room.
Earlier this month, firefighters were called to a candle fire in Loughton after a candle was left unattended upstairs and caused a fire.
“Make sure to blow candles out every time you leave the room,” says Will Newman, “even if you are only leaving the room for a second.
“Keep all candles in secure holders well away from curtains and other flammable items. Be mindful that children or pets can easily knock candles over so ensure they are placed out of reach.”
For more home fire safety advice, visit: www.essex-fire.gov.uk/Home_Fire_Safety/
Page last updated 7 October, 2021