Original URL: https://www.theregister.com/2012/02/14/valentines_fire_death/

HELLISH LOVE INFERNO TO SWEEP LONDON

Don't leave things lit and unattended while half-lit and, er, well-tended...

By Anna Leach

Posted in Bootnotes, 14th February 2012 16:01 GMT

The London Fire Brigade have taken it upon themselves to warn the romantically inclined that a Valentine's date could end with death in a burning hell blaze.

Those who expect Valentine's Day to end with liquor, chocolates and a fumble between the sheets could instead find themselves fighting for their lives in a room filled with carbon monoxide, said the Brigade's Fire Safety unit on a specially created webpage.

As "Flee" – the cartoon dog spearheading the online awareness campaign – says: "Make sure it's just your passion igniting the room. Never leave a burning candle."

Turns out that a seared contact lens and the consumption of an underdone steak are not the worst consequences that could result from a candle-lit dinner for two.

The campaign highlights that Valentine's Day puts us all in danger from candles, especially if reckless couples overcome by passion and alcohol leave them lit and unattended.

The Fire Brigade have issued guidelines to those set on engaging in the high-risk activities of cooking and candle-lighting tonight. These include:

The recommendations can be found in full here.

Concerned candle-using lovers are invited to join the discussion on the Facebook page.

The London Fire Brigade concludes with a little bon mot that may actually be worse than death by fire. Remember: "embracing the romantic mood could make your evening hotter than you might expect!" ®