HAMPSHIRE Fire and Rescue service have urged people to be careful of candles this Christmas.

It comes after firefighters think a candle caused a blaze in a residential block in the town centre this evening.

30 firefighters were dispatched to the incident at Skyline Plaza in Alencon Link on Saturday evening.

 

A spokesperson for Hampshire and Fire Rescue service said: "Make sure that no candles are left unattended.

"Put candles out before leaving the premises and keep them away from flammable materials and furniture."

Advice on the service's website adds: "Candles make a birthday party, give a winter’s night a warm glow and scent a room, but left unattended, an open flame can destroy your home in minutes."

They say that people can use candles safely by:

  • making sure candles are secured in a candle holder and away from material that may catch fire, like curtains or loose fitting clothes
  • don’t burn lots of candles close together, this may cause a larger flame and do not move a candle once lit.
  • put candles, incense or oil burners out when you leave the room, go to bed or leave the house 
  • never leave children or pets alone with burning candles
  • alternatively you could use an LED candle to create the mood without the risk