Safe Candle Use
Unattended candles caused over 20,000 home fires between 2000 and 2004. Candles seem like benign decor accents, wafting their scent and ambiance throughout our homes. But despite that “apple pie” or “jasmine” aroma, they are still open flames and need to be treated with the same respect as portable heaters or range top burners. Half of the 20,000 fires occurred because a candle was left unattended or too close to combustible materials, according to the National Fire Protection Association.
The following are some tips for safe candle use:
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Keep lit candles at least 12 inches away from combustibles like curtains, bedding, papers or books, clothing and upholstered furniture. And remember, an open window can blow curtains into the path of the flame.
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Do not leave a room without blowing out the candles. Candles in bedrooms are especially dangerous as the occupants can drift off to sleep with candles still lit. Be extra aware and cautious with lit candles in the bedroom.
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Use holders specifically made for candles. They are heavy, nearly impossible to tip over and large enough to hold any dripping wax.
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Place candles out of the reach of children and away from pets.
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Keep flashlights available in the event of a power outage; do not uses candles.
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