Belco is warning the public to be careful with candles as Hurricane Gonzalo advances.

A Belco spokeswoman said this morning in advance of expected power outages: “Use candles very carefully, if at all, when power goes out. Flashlights are the best, safest tools.

“Please be aware that candles can blow over, or be knocked over by children or pets. If you must use candles, please keep them away from curtains and other fabric, as well as wooden shelves and never leave candles burning unattended in a room. Blow them out before you leave the room, or take them with you.

“Due to the amount of damage that already exists on our system, crews will not be restoring power in the hours leading up to or during the storm. We do expect widespread outages as a result of Hurricane Gonzalo.”