People across Lichfield and Burntwood have been warned to use candles safely.
The warning comes from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service after figures revealed that more than 1,000 fires across England last year were caused by candles.
Last week firefighters were called to a property on Trent Valley Road in Lichfield after an elderly woman had attempted to put out a fire herself after candles she had been burning set a plastic toilet alight, causing her to suffer from smoke inhalation. She was taken to hospital for treatment and firefighters ventilated the entire property which was heavily smoke logged.
Risk Reduction Manager, Dave Steele said: “People tend to use candles more during the winter months. Sometimes as a source of light, heat or just decoration but it is important that they are aware of the dangers candles can pose.
“Candles should never be left unattended and extinguished properly before going to bed. They should also be placed away from curtains and other combustible materials and should not be placed on top of a TV.
“The candle should always be in a proper candle holder on a flat and stable surface and if you use tea lights they need to be on a heat-resistant surface such as a ceramic plate.
“A safer option for those who enjoy the light of candles is to use electronic tea lights, which can be purchased for a small cost and are battery operated instead of requiring a flame. These electronic candles are just as effective at creating an atmosphere but are much safer than a candle.”
