Bend fire prompts warning: Don’t leave candles unattended

The Bend Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire Wednesday night that was extinguished before crews arrived, with fairly minor damage. However, the agency wanted to highlight the cause as a community safety issue — a candle left burning unattended for a brief time.

Battalion Chief Dave Howe said the candle most likely fell over and ignited paper on a table. The safety messages:

Never leave a candle burning unattended. Open flame sources should always be monitored. Always keep candles or other open flame well clear of any combustibles, keeping in mind that a breeze can move combustibles like curtains into the flame. If you have even a small fire, do not hesitate to call 9-1-1. Fire crews can ensure that a fire is completely out and can assist in calling for resources to help in the recovery phase. Modern furnishings are usually made of plastic, which is highly toxic when burned. Even a small fire can make a home uninhabitable until cleaned up.

“The Bend Fire Department is grateful to our community for helping make this a safe place to live, and we wish all our citizens a safe, happy and healthy holiday season,” Howe said.