During the holiday season candles are used extensively both for decorative and ceremonial purposes. The Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office wants you to know that in Washington State there were 168 fires started by candles in 2007 that caused over $7.2 million in damages and two fire deaths. “This increased use of candles during the holiday season poses an even greater risk for fires and fire deaths,” says State Fire Marshal Mike Matlick.

To keep your home safe, use care and caution when burning candles.

Always keep burning candles within sight.

Use candles only in rooms where there is a responsible adult awake to control and oversee the flame.

Extinguish all candles when leaving a room or before going to sleep.

Do not use candles in sleeping areas.

Keep candles away from combustibles such as clothing, books, Christmas trees, decorations, window blinds, and curtains.

Keep candles away from high-traffic areas where they can be easily knocked over, including areas accessible to children or pets.

Place candles on stable surfaces in sturdy holders that grip the candle securely and won’t tip over.

Place candles in holders that can’t burn and are big enough to collect dripping wax.

Keep candles up high, out of reach of children.

Use extreme caution if you carry a lit candle, holding it away from clothing and any combustibles that may be near your path of travel.

NEVER PUT LIT CANDLES ON A CHRISTMAS TREE.

Now is a great time to test your smoke alarms and to review your home escape plan so that if in the event of a fire, everyone in your household knows how to get out quickly and safely. For even greater protection, consider installing a residential fire sprinkler system. Fire sprinklers actually stop the spread of fire using small amounts of water that protect life and property. Remember that fire safety is your responsibility and your preventive actions may save your or your family’s life. On behalf of the Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office we wish you and your family a fire safe holiday season.