This month we will focus on those cute little mood setters called candles. Now I know there are lots of you Ladies out there, and more than likely a few Guys too, that just love these waxy, colorful, and sweet smelling little fire sticks, including my own Mom. And…. when used in a safe and proper manner, they can create that perfect ambiance for any particular room or occasion. They are also a great tool if the lights go out and your favorite flashlight decides to go on the fritz. But when used improperly or carelessly they can be an absolute monster with a huge appetite for disaster. Just leaving one around me on a low table when I’ve got my "Happy Tail” going is just asking for trouble. It’s so hard to control that thing….

Statistically, on average, there are 42 home candle fires reported EVERY DAY and they result in an estimated 166 FIRE DEATHS and another estimated 1,289 Candle Fire related injuries each year. In 20% of these Candle Fires the candles are left unattended or abandoned. WHY?... Did you know that 36% of these fires began in bedrooms with 12% being the result of people falling asleep while burning candles, and that these bedroom fires are responsible for 36% of the associated deaths due to these fires? Or that 50% of all Candle Fires result from candles being placed too close to combustible materials? These are just a few of the statistics compiled by the U.S. Fire Administration over the years detailing candle fires.

My point is that ALL CANDLE FIRES ARE PREVENTABLE!!!!! So please…if you choose to use candles around the home, use them responsibly. Keep them up and away from children and pets, in proper holders, and always in sight. Now…. did everyone get that last part about "in sight”?....That means to not only keep candles within sight while in use around the home but also, unless you can sleep with one eye open, DON’T BE STUDYING THE BACKS OF THOSE EYELIDS WHILE YOU HAVE CANDLES BURNING.