December 7 - Firefighters received a 9-1-1 call at about 5:15 p.m. stating there was smoke coming from the Faith Lutheran Church, 9800 7th St., Hesperia. Upon their arrival, firefighters found flames coming from two offices on the south side of the Fellowship Hall building. Firefighters quickly doused the flames and were able to keep the fire from spreading into the adjacent fellowship hall.

The Pastor and sole occupant of the building at the time of the fire, was treated by County Fire paramedics for smoke inhalation and transported to Desert Valley Hospital for further treatment.

The fire started when a burning candle was accidentally knocked over, catching paperwork on fire. The building sustained moderate damage, with both offices and common area destroyed. Preliminary estimates are $130,000 in structure damage and $25,000 in content.

San Bernardino County Fire reminds you to keep burning candles away from drafts, vents, ceiling fans and air currents. Never extinguish candles with water, as the water can cause the hot wax to splatter and might cause a glass container to break. Always use a candleholder specifically designed for candle use, keep candles out of reach of children and pets.

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