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Crime & Safety

5 Things About Candle Safety

Halloween is one of the top five days for home candle fires, according to the National Fire Prevention Association.

With the popularity of candles rising, local fire departments have offered some tips for burning them safely.

1. Keep candles away from flammable objects, children and pets. Curtains and windows should also be avoided, as a curtain can blow over a candle and catch on fire. Place candles on heat-resistant surfaces, such as ceramics, that can catch hot dripping wax.

2. Never leave a candle unattended. According to the National Fire Prevention Association, 20 percent of fires caused by candles were started by unattended candles.

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3. If you're feeling sleepy or going to bed, don't light a candle. You don't want to fall asleep before blowing it out!

4. When blowing out a candle, hold a finger in front of the flame. The air will flow around your finger and extinguish it from both sides, preventing wax from splattering.

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5. Install a smoke detector in any room where candles are burned.

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