Safety Tips for Burning Candles

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

Red Candle burning

Safety Tips for Burning Candles

As we begin to welcome the Holiday Season, it is important that our families and homes stay safe. Published by the National Candle Association, the following are important tips to keep in mind when using candles.

• Never leave a burning candle unattended.
• Never burn a candle on or near anything that might catch fire.
• Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.

HOW TO BURN A CANDLE SAFELY

BEFORE LIGHTING

• Before burning, always trim the wick to ¼ inch. You can use a wick trimmer, nail clippers, or scissors. Long or crooked wicks can cause uneven burning, dripping or flaring.
• Always use a candle holder specifically designed for candle use. It should be heat resistant, sturdy, and large enough to contain any drips or melted wax.
• Burn candles in a well-ventilated room.
• Keep the wax pool clear of wick trimmings, matches and debris at all times.

WHILE BURNING

• Never touch or move a burning candle. Never move a votive or container candle when the wax is liquefied.
• Extinguish a candle if the flame becomes too high or flickers repeatedly. Let the candle cool, trim the wick, and check for unwanted drafts before re-lighting.
• Always keep the candle within your sight. If you are going to leave the room, be sure to first blow out all candles.
• Be very careful if using candles during a power outage. Flashlights and other battery-powered lights are safer sources of light during a power failure. Never use a candle during a power outage to look for things in a closet, or when fueling equipment – such as a lantern or kerosene heater.
• Never burn a candle on or near anything that can catch fire. Keep burning candles away from furniture, drapes, bedding, carpets, books, paper, flammable decorations, etc.
• Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets. Do not place lighted candles where they can be knocked over by children, pets or anyone else.

WHEN EXTINGUISHING

• Make sure the candle is completely out and the wick ember is no longer glowing before leaving the room.

 *SOURCE: HOME CANDLE FIRES, FIRE ANALYSIS AND RESEARCH DIVISION, NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION, DECEMBER 2015. BASED ON 2009-2013 ANNUAL AVERAGES"