Candle Safety
December is coming up soon and is the peak month for home candle fires. Candles are used for many reasons in the home. A few examples are that candles are burned for the visual effect, some for the aroma, some for home worship. Whatever reason that a candle is burned in the home, remember that a candle is an OPEN FLAME, which means that it can easily ignite anything that can burn.
Consider the following if you burn candles:
- When using candles, place them in sturdy, safe candleholders that will not burn or tip over.
- Keep candles at least 12 inches from anything that can burn.
- Never leave a burning candle unattended. Always keep children and pets away from burning candles.
- Never use a candle where medical oxygen is being used. The two can combine to create a large, unexpected fire. Medical oxygen can cause materials to ignite more easily and can make an existing fire burn hotter and faster.
- Always use a battery-operated light, not a candle, for emergency lighting.
- Lit candles are used in some religious rites and ceremonies in the home. These candles should be used with care. Candles placed on or near tables, altars, or shrines should be maintained under adult supervision.
- Lit candles should not be placed in windows where blinds and curtains can close over them, causing a fire.
- The best way to avoid getting burned from splashed wax is to use a candle snuffer instead of blowing on the flame.
- Think about using flameless candles in your home. They can look and smell like real candles.