Knocked-Over Candle Sparks Fire in St. Charles Home

A candle that was knocked over is being blamed for starting a fire Thursday in St. Charles, authorities said.

The St. Charles Fire Department arrived within four minutes of the 3:21 p.m. fire reported at 1904 Jeanette Ave. Firefighters found a small fire at the top of a second-floor staircase. The fire department said the blaze was extinguished in about five minutes, but firefighters remained on the scene until 4:01 to complete salvage operations, checking for fire extension into other areas and conducting the fire investigation.

The cause of the fire is attributed to candle which was accidentally knocked over, the department said. An occupant of the home discovered the fire, exited the house and called 911.

Authorities said there were no injuries and estimated the loss at $5,000; the home remains habitable.

The St. Charles Fire Department was assisted by the Geneva and Batavia fire departments.

Each holiday season, the Genva Fire Department asks residents to "Keep the Wreath Red" and avoid fires. Among the advice:

• Never leave burning candles unattended.
• Keep candles away from combustibles such as clothing, books, curtains and flammable liquids.
• Use candleholders that are sturdy, won't tip over easily, are made from a material that cannot burn, and are large enough to collect dripping wax.