May 22, 2013

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Posted: Wed 3:54 AM, Feb 13, 2013
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Reporter: Jennifer Hardy Email

Valentine's Day Fire Dangers

UNDATED -- Looking to fan the flames of love this Valentine's Day? You might want to leave the real candles behind.

Here are fire safety tips from State Farm:

 
  • Never leave a candle unattended.
  • Always keep burning candles within sight and use candles only in rooms where there is a responsible adult to control and oversee the flame.
  • Extinguish all candles when leaving a room or before going to sleep and do not use candles in sleeping areas. 
  • Keep candles away from combustibles such as clothing, books, decorations, window blinds, and curtains. 
  • Keep candles away from high-traffic areas where they can be easily knocked over, including any area accessible to children or pets. 
  • Place candles on stable surfaces in non-tip holders that grip the candle. 
  • Place candles in holders that can't burn and are big enough to collect dripping wax. 

State Farm is sending a reminder this Valentine's Day that candles can be a serious fire hazard. In fact, February is the third highest month for home fires.

More than 500 fire claims were made on Valentine's Day from 2006-2010. More than one third of home candle fires are started in the bedroom and the biggest mistake people make is putting the candle too close to combustibles, like drapes or curtains. The next most common cause of candle fires is candles being knocked over.

A safer alternative to open flame candles are battery-operated flameless candles.

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