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KALISPELL FIRE DEPARTMENT Dave Dedman – Fire Chief Jon Campbell – Assistant Fire Chief Cec Lee – Executive Secretary PO Box 1997 312 First Avenue East Kalispell, Montana 59901 Phone: (406) 758-7760 FAX: (406) 758-7777 “Protecting our community with the highest level of professionalism.” CANDLE SAFETY Candles may be pretty to look at but they are a cause of home fires — and home fire deaths. Remember, a candle is an open flame, which means that it can easily ignite anything that can burn. FACTS On average, a candle fire in the home is reported to a U.S. fire department every 30 minutes. Roughly two-fifths of home candle fires started in the bedroom. More than half of all candle fires start when things that can burn are too close to the candle. TIPS Think about using flameless candles in your home. They look and smell like real candles. Never leave a child alone in a room with a burning candle. Keep matches and lighters up high and out of children’s reach, in a locked cabinet. Blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed. Avoid the use of candles in the bedroom and other areas where people may fall asleep. Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn. Use candle holders that are sturdy, and won’t tip over easily. Put candle holders on a sturdy, uncluttered surface. Light candles carefully. Keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame. Don’t burn a candle all the way down — put it out before it gets too close to the holder or container. Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home. Have flashlights and battery-powered lighting ready to use during a power outage. Never use candles.