Candle Fire Safety Week

This week is Candle Fire Safety Week.

Candle and tea light fires are the cause of around 350 casualties each year with nearly 40% of those resulting in death or injury.

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service has issued advice for the safe enjoyment of candles:

. Never leave a burning candle unattended

. Place candles carefully. Make sure they are on a stable surface, out of the reach of pets and children, and keep them away from flammable objects like curtains, furniture, bedding or books

. Don’t move candles once they are lit

. Don’t burn several candles close together as this might cause the flame to flare

. Never put tea lights on top of TV sets or other plastic surrounds like baths

. Always put scented candles in a heat resistant holder. These candles are designed to liquefy when heated to maximise fragrance

As today is Tuesday, remember to ‘Test It Tuesday’ – test your smoke alarm.

For a full range of home fire safety advice visit www.westsussex.gov.uk/fire orwww.facebook.com/wsfrs or follow @WestSussexFire on Twitter.