The fire service has issued a warning about the use of candles during power cuts, after a woman died in a house fire in Inverness-shire.
It is thought that Sandra Barton, 68, may have been using candles to light her Lochend home before the fire on Friday night.
Fire investigators are continuing to investigate the cause of the fire.
The fire service has now urged the public to take extra care when using naked flames.
Group manager Phil Green said: “We know that people often use candles in the home, particularly during power cuts and we would like to remind people to be careful.
“If you are using of candles try not to expose yourself to any unnecessary risk of fire.
“Keep candles on hard flat surfaces and away from any flammable materials such as curtains and upholstery and never leave candles burning if you leave the room, house or go to bed.”
The service is also discouraging the use of portable gas cooking stoves inside homes during power cuts.
They say these pose a significant risk within the home and should not be used inside.
Fire brigade issue warning about use of candles during power cuts
