State Farm® cautions consumers when using candles
Bloomington, Il, 2. 9, 2013 — It’s an image straight out of a romantic movie: A room decorated with beautiful flowers. The dinner table is set for two. The seductive glow of flickering candles throughout the room complete the romantic mood. Many couples will commemorate Valentine’s Day with a scene like this without realizing the potential dangers of improper candle use. State Farm wants to remind you that, while decorative and fragranced candles may be an attractive addition to your home décor, if used improperly, they can be a serious fire hazard.
State Farm claims data shows that February is the third highest month for home fires, with 14,517 home fire claims (excluding lightning and grease fire claims) from 2006 – 2010. On Valentines’ Day alone, State Farm has received more than 500 home fire–related claims during this same five–year period. While not all of these fires can be attributed to candles, it does serve as reminder to be cautious with an open flame. The fact is that more than one–third of home candle fires are started in the bedroom. Most candle fires are caused by combustibles being too close to the candle, such as drapes. The next common cause is when candles are knocked over by wind, doors, children or pets.
One of the most important ways to reduce your risk of a home fire due to candles is to never leave a candle unattended. Always keep burning candles within sight and use candles only in rooms where there is a responsible adult to control and oversee the flame. Consider these additional tips to reduce your risk of a destructive candle fire:
More information, along with photos and videos available at :
Romantic not Frantic
Candle Fire Infographic
Arlene J. Lester, Media Specialist, (973) 943-6524
State Farm and its affiliates are the largest provider of car insurance in the U.S. and is a leading insurer in Canada. In addition to providing auto insurance quotes, their 17,800 agents and more than 65,000 employees serve 81 million policies and accounts - more than 79 million auto, home, life and health policies in the United States and Canada, and nearly 2 million bank accounts. Commercial auto insurance, along with coverage for renters, business owners, boats and motorcycles, is also available. State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company is the parent of the State Farm family of companies. State Farm is ranked No. 43 on the Fortune 500 list of largest companies. For more information, please visit http://www.statefarm.com or in Canada http://www.statefarm.ca.
