Ajax Fire yesterday warned residents of the dangers of leaving lit candles unattended.
On Tuesday, December 19, at about 5:30 am, Ajax Fire responded to a report of a structure fire in the area of Salem Road and Kingston Road.
It was determined that the cause of the fire was a candle left burning while the occupant was sleeping. Fortunately, the occupant was able to evacuate and there were no injuries, said an Ajax fire statement.
“The incident that occurred in Ajax early Tuesday morning is an important reminder to all residents that if you use real candles, please blow them out when you leave the room and before going to bed. Also, please refrain from using real candles in areas where you may fall asleep. The occupant had a very close call and thankfully they were not injured,” said Shelley Langer, Fire Prevention Inspector.
Quick Tips
- Extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to bed.
- Refrain from using real candles in areas where you may fall asleep or take a nap.
- Keep lit candles away from combustibles.
- Keep lighters and matches up high out of the reach of children, in a locked cabinet.
- Flameless candles are a safer option.
- Every home in Ontario is required to have a working smoke alarm on every storey, as well as outside all sleeping areas.
- Test smoke alarms monthly.
- Smoke alarms don’t last forever. Replace units that are over 10 years old.
- Smoke alarms can’t protect you if the batteries have been removed, or a plug has been disconnected.