A warning has been issued by the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service about the dangers of unattended candles after a home in Co Antrim was gutted by fire.
NIFRS said they attended the accidental blaze in Ballymena on Monday morning.
Firefighters confirmed those inside the property successfully escaped without injury but images shared on the NIFRS social media page showed significant damage to the home.
In a post, NIFRS North said: “Crews from Ballymena attended an accidental fire this morning caused by a candle left unattended.
“Thankfully, the occupier was able to get out safely, and crews extinguished the fire.
“Don’t leave candles unattended and ensure they are in a safe place.”
Fire in property in Co Antrim
Among the Fire Service’s advice to people is to ensure that candles are never left unattended and that any that are lit are done so in a safe place.
They also urged people to keep any candles well away from flammable items such as soft furnishings, decorations, Christmas trees and wrapping paper.
Fire in property in Co Antrim