Bedroom fire caused by candle

Crews have issued safety advice after a candle caused a bedroom fire and left a family temporarily homeless. 

Firefighters were called to reports of a fire in a terraced property in Longmead Avenue, Chelmsford. 

Crews found a fire which had started in the bedroom after an unattended candle set fire to material surrounding it and spread quickly to the rest of the bedroom. 

The family were alerted by a smoke alarm and escaped unharmed.

Station Manager Scott Fretton said: "Crews worked quickly to extinguish the fire and stop it from spreading next door. This incident highlights the dangers of leaving candles unattended; it only takes a moment for a naked flame to start a fire that can spread very quickly.

"Thankfully there was a working smoke alarm and the occupants were able to get out and call 999.

"However, the property was badly damaged and the family have unfortunately been left homeless as a result."

Candle safety advice

• Never leave candles burning unattended - put them out when you leave the room and make sure they're completely out at night
• Do not leave children alone with candles
• Don’t move candles once they are lit
• Make sure candles are away from materials that might catch fire
• Make sure candles are secured in a proper holder and keep the wax pool clear
• Burn candles in a well-ventilated room, but avoid drafts, vents or air currents. This will help prevent rapid or uneven burning
• Trim the wick to ¼ inch each time before burning. Long or crooked wicks can cause uneven burning, dripping or flaring
• Do not burn several candles close together as this might cause flaring