ALERT: Fire warning over mistake many people make with candles in Irish homes

Irish people have been hit with a house fire warning over candles as we head into the Halloween and Christmas periods.

This time of the year sees an increase in the number of people lighting candles in the home but also an increase in callouts for house fires.

The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage has issued the alert via its Fire Ireland safety website which highlights a common mistake many of us make with candles.

One of the pieces of the advice says: "Use proper holders when burning candles." It also says "avoid leaving burning candles unattended," a potentially fatal mistake made by thousands of people.

Candles, especially those in unsuitable holders or without a safe holder can burn out of control. When candles burn down, the melted wax can ignite, causing a much larger flame which can then result in other items catching fire.

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The advice continues: "Together We Can STOP Fire. STOP stands for:

S – is for Smoke alarms. Make sure you have at least one on every level/floor.

T – is for Test your smoke alarms weekly or ask someone to check it for you.

O – is for Obvious dangers. Look out for fire risks like overloaded sockets, candles and unattended appliances.

P – is for Plan your escape route. Keep access routes clear and have your keys at the ready.

The advice continues with things to avoid and make sure to do in order to keep your home safe. It says:

Avoid:

Smoking when tired

Leaving burning candles unattended

Leaving young children unattended

Leaving matches and lighters where children can get them

Leaving chip pans, frying pans, etc. unattended

Standing too close to fires, heaters, etc.

Using faulty electrical appliances

Overloading sockets

Make sure to:

Have your chimney cleaned at least once a year

Use a sparkguard with open fires

Use proper holders when burning candles

Keep ashtrays empty when not in use

Have a suitable fire extinguisher and fire blanket in your kitchen

Have faulty electrical appliances repaired or replaced immediately

Close all doors at night time

Carry out a routine fire safety check before going to bed