Firefighters are urging residents to make the switch to LED candles after two separate house fires in Essex were caused by unattended candles on the same night.

Crews were first called to a property in Harlow shortly before 10pm on Thursday 23 October. On arrival, firefighters found a well-developed fire in a bedroom, which had been completely destroyed by smoke and flames.

Watch Manager Ross Daynes said: “When our crews arrived, they found a well-developed fire in the bedroom. This has been left completely destroyed by smoke and fire.

“During our search of the property, we rescued two boa constrictor snakes. The cause of the fire was candles left unattended.

Just a few hours later, firefighters from Chelmsford were called to another house fire – again caused by a candle being left unattended. The property was left heavily smoke-damaged.

Ross added: “Candles are a popular way to make our homes cosier in the darker and colder evenings, but it’s important to remember that candles are an open flame which can cause devastation if left unattended.

“We are asking people to do one thing that will eliminate the risk of a candle fire, that is by swapping your normal wax candles for LED ones.

“LED candles are not only the safer option, but they last longer which saves you money, whilst giving the exact same effect as real ones. They can be safely used in pumpkins for Halloween and around synthetic costumes, without the worry of them catching fire.

“If you are going to use real candles, please make sure you have a working smoke alarm on every level of your property. Which in these two cases, saved lives.”

Here are a few simple precautions you should take when using candles or tea lights in the home:

• Make sure candles are secured in a proper holder and are away from flammable materials, such as curtains
• Never leave children alone with lit candles
• Put candles out when you leave the room, and make sure they’re put out completely before you go to bed
• Keep the wax pool clear of wick trimmings, matches and debris
• Burn candles in a well-ventilated room, but avoid drafts, vents or air currents which can cause rapid or uneven burning, sooting, and excessive dripping
• Keep the wick short and trim before burning where necessary. Long or crooked wicks can cause uneven burning, dripping or flaring
• Don’t move candles once they are lit
• Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on burn time and proper use
• Don’t burn several candles close together as this can cause flaring
• Avoid letting glass candles burn all the way down