Warning Issued About Candles

Sat., Feb. 6, 1999

From Staff

A string of house fires started by unattended candles has Spokane firefighters warning the public to be careful.

Over the past eight weeks, five homes have sustained considerable damage due to fires ignited by candles, firefighters said Friday.

The blazes left 16 people homeless and caused nearly $195,000 in property damage.

“It is important to remain alert to the fire dangers associated with even the smallest candles and to follow common safety precautions,” the Spokane Fire Department said in a prepared statement.

Those precautions include:

Never using candles when you’re drowsy.

Never leaving a lighted candle unattended.

Always using sturdy, noncombustible candle holders.

Never placing lighted candles in windows where blinds or curtains can ignite.

Keeping lighted candles out of the reach of young children and pets.

Monitoring candles used by teenagers in their bedrooms.

For more information, call the Fire Department’s public education officer at 625-7072.

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