3 Tips to Prevent a Candle Fire

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Candles Safety Tips

Candles are a popular choice for lighting, décor, ceremonial uses, and even fragrance. While they can be beautiful, candles can also be dangerous. According to the National Fire Protection Association, an average of 21 candle fires are reported each day. It only takes a matter of minutes for a candle fire to spread to other parts of your home. These tips can help you use candles safely.

1. Pay Attention to Placement
Be sure to put candles in a sturdy holder or container that won’t be easily knocked over. Place the holder on a flat, sturdy surface. Choose a location that is safely away from children and pets and is at least 12 inches away from anything flammable, such as books, decorations, curtains, furniture, paper, or clothing. Avoid candles if anyone in your home uses an oxygen tank.

2. Don’t Walk Away
Never leave a burning candle unattended, especially if there are other people in the house. Keep an eye on the wax level and be sure to put the candle out before it gets too low. If the flame gets too close to the bottom of the container or side of the holder, the holder could become extremely hot or even explode, sparking a candle fire.

3. Consider Alternatives
Today, there are many options available that mimic a candle’s soft, flickering glow. Battery-operated flameless candles come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Because they don’t emit heat, these candle alternatives can be safely used just about anywhere. If scent is your primary motivation for using candles, consider using a fragrance diffuser with scented essential oils, or a plug-in air freshener. If you keep candles on hand for power outages, swap them for battery-powered flashlights. Keep fresh batteries with the flashlights to be sure you’re prepared.
A flickering candle may look lovely or smell amazing, but no candle is worth the potential injuries, smoke cleanup, and structural repairs that can accompany a candle fire.