Incense stick causes bedroom fire
Firefighters extinguished a bedroom fire last night (23 January) which was caused by an incense stick.
Crews were called to St Leonards Road, Southend on Sea at 5.50pm last night.
When firefighters entered the property they found the whole upper floor completely smoke damaged. Crews extinguished the fire and ventilated the property.
Watch Manager Ben Manning said: “The resident was using an incense stick in the bedroom and thought they’d put it out. But the embers were still smouldering and caught the bedding alight, which spread to nearby furniture.
“Unfortunately due to the amount of damage caused, the residents have been left homeless.
“Please remember when using candles, wax melts or incense sticks to never leave them unattended.
“With incense sticks, they need to be properly stubbed out. It only takes an ember to catch nearby items alight.”
Candle safety advice
- Incense sticks need to be properly stubbed out. It only takes an ember to catch nearby items alight
- 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
