Disasters can cause extensive damage, sometimes in places you least expect. Look carefully for any potential hazards. Use battery-powered lanterns or flashlights when examining buildings. Battery-powered lighting is the safest and easiest and does not present a fire hazard for the user, occupants, or building. Avoid using candles.
Candles can easily cause fires.
They are quiet and easily forgotten. They can tip over during earthquake aftershocks or in a gust of wind. Candles invite fire play by children. More than three times as many people have died in residential fires caused by using candles after a disaster than from the direct impact of the disaster itself. Look for fire hazards.