Be #FDNYSmart with Candles During The Holiday Season

Hi Friends!  The holiday season is coming upon us. We have many friends who are getting ready to observe the Jewish holidays of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.

The Sabbath and Jewish holidays are an important time for family gatherings, food, songs and customs.  These include many traditional cooking and candle rituals.

Friends it is really important to be #FDNYSmart while celebrating the holiday season, especially when it comes to candle safety.

Did you know that more than 33 percent of candle fires happen when candles are left unattended?  Half of the people killed by candle fires in the home are usually under the age of 20, with most victims between five and nine years of age.

This means friends of all ages need to be careful around candles.  Here are some safety tips you should remember during this important time of year.

• Using sturdy candle holders, with flame-protective non-combustible (glass or metal) shades or globes.
• Placing candles at least four feet away from curtains, draperies, blinds, kitchen cabinets and bedding.
• Placing candles out of reach of small children and pets.
• Extinguishing candles when they burn within two inches of the holder.
• Never leaving burning candles unattended.
• Securing hair and clothing, such as sleeves or aprons, from the flame when handling candles.
• Keeping candles, matches and lighters, including lit memorial containers and Chanukah menorahs, out of reach of children.

Watch our latest PSA about how small flames become large fires here.

You can also read more about ways to observe the Jewish holidays and Sabbath safely here.

So friends, please enjoy your holiday season and stay #FDNYSmart!

Don’t forget to check out our Flash Facts  to learn helpful and life saving tips to keep your family safe.  Plus be sure to follow us on Twitter!  You can find Hot Dog and Siren here.