Did you know that candle fires account for almost 5% of all reported house fires in the UK?

Or that, over the last decade, fires started by burning candles have almost trebled? These are the stark figures that the council's Home Safety Officer Margaret Brunton and the Trading Standards team are keen to highlight this festive season.

Margaret said: "In our modern lives we have become so used to central heating and electric light bulbs that most of us have forgotten how dangerous candles can be.  

"We use candles to create that warm cosy glow on a winter's evening and Christmas just wouldn't be Christmas without decorated candles on the dinner table. Unfortunately we have forgotten the disasters that can also result from the use of a small naked flame!"

And consumers are also being urged to be wary of buying and using one particular type of candle.

David Templeton, the council's Senior Trading Standards Officer, said: "Gel candles are a particular example of what to avoid as gel tends to burn hotter than wax. The resulting excessive heat can shatter a glass candleholder or container and make it more likely that anything flammable which might be nearby will catch fire.

"In general, we would advise that candles should be treated with respect if they are to be enjoyed safely. After all, if used sensibly they can produce a unique atmosphere and one which we all enjoy especially during the festive period.

"The key is not to forget that you are dealing with naked flame, which even on this small scale, can lead to tragedy."

Top tips for safe use of candles:

• Never leave candles unattended
• Always place candle holders on a heat resistant surface
• Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets
• Do not touch or move until fully cooled
• Trim candlewicks to 1/4 inch each time before burning.
• Place candles on a level surface away from flammable materials, heat or draughts
• Never allow the flame to come in contact with a glass container
• If a candle overheats and flares, cover it with a damp cloth - never use water
• Do not burn a candle for longer than the manufacturer recommends
• Always place candles at least four inches apart from one another to be sure they don't melt one another or create their own draughts that will cause the candles to burn improperly.

Anyone with concerns about the safety of candles they have seen on sale, or have bought, should call the Home Safety Officer on 01698 455630 or Consumer and Trading Standards on 01698 426921.

Source: SLC