SAN DIEGO — With the holiday season at full speed, officials with the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department remind residents to be cautious with their festive — but potentially lethal candle use. According to fire officials, candles are one of the leading causes of residential fires, recently demonstrated by a fire in North Park on Dec. 13 that left an apartment renter hospitalized with smoke inhalation injuries. Damage to the apartment and contents was placed at $100,000, said fire department spokesman Lee Swanson. To ensure safety this holiday, fire officials issue the following tips: • Never burn candles near combustibles like curtains or decorations • Never put candles near windows or exits • Never leave candles within reach of small children or pets • Keep burning candles at least four inches apart • Votive and scented candles turn to liquid when they burn; be sure they are in a glass or metal container • Extinguish candles before leaving a room or going to sleep • Keep the candle wick neatly trimmed down to a quarter-inch; trimming the wick keeps the candle burning slower with less smoke • When a candle’s flame gets too high, blow it out and let it cool before relighting • If a fire begins from a fire or other source, escape first and call for help; develop aa home-escape plan and practice it with your family. For more information, call (619) 533-3780, or visit www.sandiego.gov/fireandems/safety/tips.shtml.