Candle cited in Iowa City house fire that injured one, killed two pets

An Iowa City house fire that killed two pets, injured one man and displaced three people over the weekend was started by an unattended candle in a bedroom, according to the Iowa City Fire Department.

The candle ignited nearby combustibles early Saturday in a house at 1132 Ash St., causing about $50,000 in damage. The displaced residents' names have not been released.

The condition of the injured person is not known, but Fire Marshal John Grier said the man was taken for treatment at the burn unit at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

Iowa City firefighters from three stations responded to the blaze about 6:10 a.m. Saturday and found heavy amounts of smoke coming from a second-story window. It took crews about 30 minutes to control the blaze.

A dog and a cat were killed in the fire, and the Red Cross is helping the displaced residents.

Most candle fires are the result of human error, according to fire officials, meaning they are preventable.

Here are a few tips to stay safe when using candles.

Blow out candles when you leave the room or go to bed.

Avoid using candles in bedrooms or other areas where people can fall asleep.

Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything flammable.

Consider using flameless candles.

Use candle holders that are sturdy and place them on safe, uncluttered surfaces.

Light candles carefully and keep hair and loose clothing away from the flame.

Don't burn a candle all the way down.

Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home.

Use flashlights and battery-powered lighting during a power outage, not candles.