Fire crews respond to unattended candles during Hanukkah celebrations

JUST two days into Hanukkah celebrations four fire engines from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) attended a house fire thought to be started by candles which had been left unattended.

At 6.51pm yesterday evening (Monday 23 December) crews from Broughton, Agecroft, Salford and Manchester Central attended a fire in involving the living room of a property in Norwood Avenue, Salford.

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus were quickly able to deal with the fire, using a hose reel, a positive pressure ventilation fan and a door ram to gain access to the house.

This incident comes days after a warning for members of the Jewish community to stay safe ahead of the Hanukkah celebrations. 

Area Manager, Ben Levy said: “Thankfully on this occasion there were no injuries reported, despite there being some damage to the home.

“As our Jewish families in the city-region celebrate what should be a joyous and happy time, lighting the menorah with candles or oil, we urge everyone to stay safe this Hanukkah by following our simple tips.”

This time of the year is very special to families all across Greater Manchester, and further afield, so following some simple and easy to follow safety advice can keep residents safe and allow them continue enjoying the celebrations for the remainder of the holiday.

If you are celebrating Hanukkah this year:  

• Keep candles and oils placed firmly in the menorah on a flat, heat resistant surface
• Keep the menorah away from flammable material including curtains and furniture
• Keep at least three feet between the menorah and any surface above it
• Never move the menorah when lit and don’t leave it unattended
• Keep the menorah out of reach of children
• Ensure you have a working smoke alarm on each level of your home
• Only use suitable glass or metal containers to burn candles or oil in

Ben continued: “Additionally, as families also celebrate Christmas across Greater Manchester, candles are often lit during the festive celebrations or given as gifts. We urge people to take precautions - choose somewhere safe to light your candles, never leave them unattended, and ensure you have a working smoke alarm correctly fitted on every floor of your home.”

24/12/2019 09:51 AM