Candle Safety

According to the National Fire Protection Association, candles started an estimated 15,600 home fires in 2005. These fires resulted in an estimated 150 deaths, 1,270 injuries and $539 million in direct property loss. In 2005, he top five days for home candle fires were Christmas, Christmas Eve, New Year's Day, New Year's Eve and Halloween.

Tips to make your home safer when using candles: 

• Burn candles inside a one-foot "circle of safety", free of anything than can burn, such as curtains, furniture, blankets, papers and clothing.
• Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.
• Use a sturdy metal, glass or ceramic candleholder.
• Never leave a burning candle unattended - always make sure a grown up is in the room with the candle.
• Extinguish candles when leaving the room or when you might.