Candles pose fire hazard Published March 18, 2009 By 375th Civil Engineer Squadron Fire Department 375th CES FD SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- Candles are an attractive addition to home décor, but if used improperly, they can be a serious fire hazard. According to the National Fire Protection Association Journal article, "Candle Fires on the Rise," residential fires caused by candles have more than doubled over the past decade. There are an estimated 15,600 residential fires, 150 deaths, 1,270 injuries and $539 million in direct property damage each year. The majority of candle fires result from human error. Below are some of the numbers regarding candle fires. · More than half, or 55 percent, of home candle fires start because they are placed near combustible material. · Candle fires that ignite in the bedroom account for 38 percent of all candle fires. · Falling asleep with a candle on occurs in 12 percent of home candle fires and is associated with 26 percent of deaths. · Half of all candle fire deaths occur between midnight and 6 a.m. · Younger children and older adults are most at risk for death from candle fires. · The risk of a fatal candle fire appears higher when candles are used for light. In order to avoid candle fires, some safety precautions can be taken, including avoiding the following: · Avoiding using lighted candles. · Using candles not placed in sturdy metal, glass or ceramic holders. · Placing candles where they can be easily knocked down. · Keeping candles out of the reach of children and pets. · Allowing child to play with matches, lighters or candles. · Leaving the house or going to bed with a candle burning. · Not extinguishing candles after use. · Not establishing a fire safe home. · Not leaving burning candles unattended.