CANDLES, INCENSE, AND OPEN FLAMES

Day 9 - Campus Fire Safety Month

Candles, incense,  and other open flames are common sources of residential fires.  The best prevention is to eliminate or strictly limit the use of such articles.  But, if you decide to use them, here are a few tips to do so more safely:

*  Place them in sturdy holders.  A heavy candle holder with a large base is less likely to get knocked over.  Ensure the candle is firmly set into the holder and doesn't wobble around.
 
*  Place the candle and holder on a study desk, dresser, table, or countertop.  If placed on a flimsy or cushioned surface, a candle can easily be toppled.
 
*  Keep curtains, papers and other combustibles away from any open flame.  Remember that curtains can be blown by the wind, so keep candles and incense well away from draperies and curtains.

*  Keep pets away from open flames.  A swishing tail or a bumped table can knock over a candle and spread flames to other combustibles.

*  Never leave a burning candle unattended.  If you leave the room where a candle is burning, either take it with you or extinguish it completely.

*  Ensure candles are completely extinguished before discarding them.  Used birthday candles should be held under running water or soaked in water before discarding them in the trash.

Remember:  if you light a candle and it subsequently causes a fire, then YOU lit the fire!  So, limit your use of candles and open flames wherever possible, and use them safely if you use them at all.

Enjoy the month of September, and please take a moment to adopt some of these Campus Fire Safety tips, and encourage your student friends and family members to do the same.

Take Care and Stay Safe.

Tim