FIREFIGHTERS have urged people to be careful when using candles and tea lights after a fire in a flat in Laindon on Valentine's Day (Tuesday) evening.

Crews were called to a first floor flat in Beeston Courts and when they arrived, the property was completely smoke logged.

Fortunately, the occupants of the property had been alerted by working smoke alarms and able to get out safely and call 999.

The fire was extinguished by 9.34pm.

Steven Finn, Crew Manager at Basildon Fire Station, said: "Candles are one of the most common causes of fires in homes - you'd be surprised just how easily they can occur, if they aren't used safely.

"In this incident, the tea lights ignited a curtain which then began spreading until the smoke alarms sounded. We recommend using electric candles, but if you're going to have candles or tea lights then please make sure you keep them well away from anything flammable and never ever leave them unattended.

"Thanks to the work of crews, the fire was contained to the area it started in and the flat has escaped major damage."

Using candles?

Here are a few simple precautions you should take when using candles or tea lights in the home:

• Consider swapping wax candles for LED candles, they are much safer and give the same warm glow
• Make sure candles are secured in a proper holder and are away from flammable materials, such as curtains
• Never leave children alone with lit candles
• Put candles out when you leave the room, and make sure they're put out completely before you go to bed
• Keep the wax pool clear of wick trimmings, matches and debris
• Burn candles in a well-ventilated room, but avoid drafts, vents or air currents which can cause rapid or uneven burning, sooting, and excessive dripping
• Keep the wick short and trim before burning where necessary. Long or crooked wicks can cause uneven burning, dripping or flaring
• Don't move candles once they are lit
• Follow the manufacturer's recommendations on burn time and proper use
• Don't burn several candles close together as this can cause flaring

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