The FDNY's Fire Safety Education Unit is doing outreach to inform the public of fire safety hazards as power returns to storm-hit areas, which has resulted in a 37 percent increase in fires.

At a recovery center in Dongan Hills, Staten Island, the fire department is handing out free smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

They said the use of candles in homes without power and water-damaged equipment lead to the increase in fires.

"What we're doing now is, we have the distribution sites for the storm and that's where your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are being given out," said George Tabeek of the FDNY. "That's Staten Island, you got Far Rockaway, you got Coney Island. This weekend we'll be in Coney Island as well."

"You want to be careful with candles," said Lt. Anthony Mancuso of the FDNY. "Always stay in the room with them. Never leave an open flame unoccupied. In addition, Christmas trees, always make sure they are hydrated."

For more information about fire safety, the fire department urges residents to call 311.