Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) has urged the community to remember to use candles safely, reminding householders to never leave candles unattended.
It comes after an alarm was raised at around 5:30am on Monday morning, 2nd December, when a blaze broke out in an apartment in the Demesne area of Ballymena.
Fire crews rushed to the scene of the incident, including two Appliances from Ballymena, and one Appliance in support from Antrim. Firefighters using breathing apparatus and imagining equipment entered the apartment and extinguished the blaze.
The home was extensively damaged in the incident but thanks to the quick actions of fire service colleagues, it was contained within the apartment and did not spread to neighbouring units.
Following the incident, a spokesperson for NIFRS (North) commented:
“Crews from Ballymena attended an accidental fire this morning caused by a candle left unattended.
“Thankfully, the occupier was able to get out safely, and crews extinguished the fire.
“Don't leave candles unattended and ensure they are in a safe place.”
As we move into winter, NIFRS warns the public to be mindful of fire risks, especially with candles at this time of the year.
Always make sure candles are in suitable holders.
Keep well away from flammable items such as soft furnishings, decorations, Christmas trees and wrapping paper.
Do not use in bedrooms or anywhere you may fall asleep.
Put out candles when leaving the room, and before going to bed.
Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children.
Never leave candles unattended.
Home Fire Safety Check
To help keep everyone safe from fire, NIFRS offer online Home Fire Safety Checks through Safelincs. This gives you tailored fire safety advice and lets your local team know if you would benefit from an in-person check.
The online check is available to everyone. This easy, self-assessment only takes around 15 minutes and involves completing a series of questions about you and your home.
At the end you will be given tailored fire safety advice which you can download and keep for future reference. Also, if you are eligible, you will be referred for an in-person Home Fire Safety Check.
To take your Home Fire Safety Check TAP HERE.