Justice and Public Safety
December 11, 2015

Public Advisory: The 12 Days of Fire Safety - Day Three

The use of candles is popular during the holiday season but these open flames are a common cause of home fires.

December is the peak time of year for candle-caused home fires, roughly one third of which start in bedrooms when the candle is placed too close to something flammable such as a sheet or lampshade.

Artificial candles are always preferable but if individuals would rather have the real thing, take the following precautions:

• Place candles on a secure, clean surface a safe distance (minimum 30 cm) from anything flammable;
• Use sturdy candle holders that won't easily tip over;
• Light candles carefully, taking extra care not to ignite hair or loose clothing;
• Don't burn a candle all the way down as the heat can ignite some candle holders;
• Always blow out candles when leaving the room or going to bed;
• Never burn a candle in the bedroom or anywhere people may fall asleep; and
• Never burn a candle if oxygen tanks are used in your home.

All residents of the province are invited to visit @FES_GovNL on Twitter during the 12 Days of Fire Safety to complete our fire safety quiz for the chance to win an emergency preparedness kit.

For more information about fire safety and emergency preparedness, visit the FES-NL website: www.gov.nl.ca/fes

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Media contact:

Ryan Crocker Media Relations Manager Fire and Emergency Services-Newfoundland and Labrador 709-729-0857, 709-690-1810 ryancrocker@gov.nl.ca

2015 12 11                              10:40 a.m.