Health Watch is a Public Service of the Office of News and Publications and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.
This week on Health Watch, we’re talking about staying safe during the holidays. Candles may be a big part of the holiday season, either as decor or as part of a religious observance. But they can also be a serious danger, according to
Dr. Gary Purdue, a burn specialist at UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas. One brush against a candle flame, and clothing can catch on fire. It’s safest not to burn candles in your home, but if you do, keep them away from areas where people might brush against them accidentally.
You can also help prevent burns by keeping a screen around your fireplace and not using gasoline to start an indoor fire. Most children’s burns happen in the kitchen, so small children should be kept out of the kitchen while you’re cooking.
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December 2005
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