East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service is urging residents to take extra care with candles after two recent fires, including one which left three people suffering from smoke inhalation.
The warning comes during Candle Fire Safety Week, running from 26 October to 1 November, as part of the national Fire Kills campaign.
In August, firefighters attended a house fire in Newhaven after a candle left burning on a shelf behind a door set light to clothing.
A resident had briefly left the property, forgetting the candle was still alight. The fire spread into the hallway, but nobody was injured.
In September, crews were called to a residential building in Brighton, where they found a well-developed fire at the rear and heavy smoke coming from second-floor windows.
Although the fire alarm system had activated, one resident remained asleep and was alerted by another occupant.
Three people suffered smoke inhalation and were passed into the care of the ambulance service. Firefighters also rescued a cat unharmed.
The Brighton fire is believed to have started from a candle which had not been extinguished before a resident fell asleep.
The service says both incidents demonstrate how easily candle fires can start and how quickly they can spread. They also underline the importance of working smoke alarms and knowing how to escape.
Residents are encouraged to use LED or flameless candles instead of traditional wick candles.
Anyone using real candles should extinguish them before leaving the room and ensure they are completely out before going to bed.
Candles, including tealights, should be placed in suitable fireproof holders on stable surfaces, away from curtains, furniture, bedding and books, and beyond the reach of children and pets.
The service also advises against moving lit candles or placing several close together.
Residents should test smoke alarms monthly and make sure everyone in the household knows the escape route. If a fire breaks out, the advice is to get out, stay out and call 999.
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