RoSPA Press Office : Press Release

February 12, 2002
VALENTINES WARNED AS CANDLE FIRES SOAR

A dramatic increase in candle fires and casualties has sparked a Valentine’s Day warning from The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents.

RoSPA fears lovers wanting to kindle the flames of romance could inadvertently start fires that will end in tragedy rather than passion.

Over a five-year period, candle fires have soared by more than 50 per cent and deaths resulting from them have doubled. Injuries have rocketed by nearly 80 per cent.

Latest figures available are for 1999. They show 1,904 candle fires, 19 deaths and 812 injuries in the UK. In 1995, there were 1,226 candle fires, nine deaths and 452 injuries.

David Jenkins, RoSPA Product Safety Adviser, said: “This alarming increase in fires has coincided with the growth in the popularity of candles. Many use them to create a romantic atmosphere and we do not want to see tragedy strike this Valentine’s Day.

“Candles need to be in a stable container and kept well away from flammable materials like curtains, clothing and covers. It is vital that people do not leave burning candles unattended, and that they make sure they have put them out before retiring.

“People also need to be particularly careful with tea lights which are often placed around the room. The metal containers can become extremely hot and have melted their way through plastic television cabinets and baths.

“RoSPA said some time ago that candles fires were likely to increase. Sadly, our predictions have come true. We hope when the new figures come out shortly they will show that people have started to heed the safety warnings.”