Keep the love alive this Valentine’s Day, prevent the cooking and candle fires

If you’re planning to celebrate Valentine’s Day by cooking a special meal or using candles to create a warm, cozy environment, remember to keep fire safety in mind.

Home fires involving cooking equipment is the leading cause of home fires, with unattended cooking serving as the leading cause. Keep a close eye on what’s on the stove and in the oven and turn off cooking appliances promptly when you’re finished using them. Also, keep anything that can burn, such as oven mitts, dish towels, and food packaging, at least three feet from the cooking area.

An average of 20 home candle fires are reported to US fire departments each day. Three of every five (60%) of home candle fires occurred when some form of combustible material was left or came too close to the candle, with roughly one-third (37%) of home candle fires starting in bedrooms. Consider using battery-operated candles, which eliminate the risk of candle fires. If you do plan to use real candles, these tips can help minimize the risk of fire:

• Keep candles at least 12 inches 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.
• Blow out all candles before you leave a room or go to bed.
• Never leave children or pets alone in a room with a burning candle.
• 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.
• Avoid the use of candles in the bedroom and other areas where people may fall asleep.

Check out our cooking and candle safety pages for more information and to keep this February 14 a romantic, fire-free holiday.