Huntsville will join over 7,000 cities and towns Saturday to commemorate Earth Hour. For one hour residents will opt not to use electricity to raise awareness and promote the environment. The Huntsville/Lake of Bays Fire Department says if you’re going to be using candles to light up your home, there is a higher risk of fire. He says you’ll have to double check your smoke alarms to make sure they’re working. The fire department suggests you use flashlights or flameless candles instead.
If candles must be used, special care should be taken to prevent a fire. Here are some tips:
• Use sturdy candleholders that won’t tip or burn. Those with glass shades or chimneys are best.
• Keep lit candles a safe distance away from anything that can burn.
• Keep candles, matches and lighters out of the reach of children.
• Always stay in the room where candles are being used. Never leave candles unattended. Blow all candles out before leaving a room.
• Keep candles out of all bedrooms. It’s the law in Ontario to have working smoke alarms on every storey and outside all sleeping areas of the home.
Smoke alarms can provide an early warning of fire and a home escape plan will help ensure everyone knows what to do in a fire.