Combustibles Too Close

In the language of fire reporting, combustibles too close is a cause of fire. Quite simply, it means a heat source and something that can burn have been left unattended and too close together. It could be a child’s blanket atop a space heater or a candle left burning on a dresser. These fires can be devastating during the day when no one is home to detect them and fatal at night when family members are sleeping.

Prevention Tips

Be alert to all sources of heat, such as candles, gas/wood/pellet stoves, heaters and other sources of open flame. Keep combustibles such as paper, trash, furniture, bedding or clothes at least three feet away from heat sources.

Be aware that electric baseboard or wall heaters are thermostatically controlled and can kick on without warning when temperatures drop.

Be cautious with portable heaters. Use only heaters with a tip switch that will turn them off if they get knocked over. Place them away from areas of heavy traffic such as hallways and room entries. Unplug when not in use and at night.

Be especially careful with candles, which are increasing both in popularity and as a cause of fire.

• Keep candles in stable holders that won’t tip.
• Remain in the room with burning candles.
• Never leave them unattended.
• Avoid buying candles with combustible items embedded in them such as twigs, flowers or leaves.
• Place candles out of reach of children and pets.
• Make sure candles are blown out before leaving home or going to bed.