Fire service warning regarding candle safety

Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service has reissued advice and warnings over the use of candles after a fire broke out at a property in Derby at breakfast time on Friday morning, 12th November.

All occupants were out of the property on arrival of the fire service and two adults were treated on scene by EMAS for the effects of smoke inhalation. 

The fire was located in the first-floor bathroom. Four firefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered the property using hose real jets to extinguish the fire.

Crews from Kingsway, Ascot Drive and Nottingham Road Fire Stations attended the scene. 

A fire investigation concluded that the fire started accidentally due to an unattended candle in the bathroom.

Station Manager Julia Smith who was the Officer in Charge said: “I would like to remind people of the dangers associated with leaving candles unattended in the home.  Thankfully on this occasion one of the occupants was up and about and heard banging and popping coming from the bathroom, this alerted them to something not being right.  On investigation they discovered the fire, and the occupants were able to evacuate the property and call 999.

“This could have been a different story if they hadn’t heard the noises coming from the bathroom as there weren’t any smoke alarms fitted that could have provided vital early warning of the fire.”

Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service would like to remind people of the following home fire safety information:

• Fit smoke alarms on every level of your home and test them weekly – only working smoke alarms can give vital early warning of a fire and valuable extra seconds to escape. 
• Have a pre-planned and practiced escape route – ensure you know how to get out of your home in the event of a fire. Get out, stay out and call 999.
• Never leave burning candles unattended.  Only burn candles in a well-ventilated room away from drafts, vents, curtains and any flammable materials.  Always ensure candles are placed in a non-flammable holder and placed on a heat resistant surface.