WASHINGTON – The National Association of State Fire Marshals wants consumers to be careful when they decorate their homes this holiday season.

The association says some 10,000 residential fires occur each year, and a number of those are caused by people who place candles too close to household items. The number of candles in the home doubles during December.

John Dean, the association’s vice president, cites four easy rules for preventing fire during the holidays:

. Always keep burning candles within sight.

. Keep lit candles out of reach of children or pets.

. Do not place candles near products that can easily be ignited.

. Check that all smoke detectors are working.