Five Things to Know about Candle Safety
Underwriters Laboratories recommends the following candle safety tips:
- Candle fires have more than doubled since 1990. In 2001, 190 deaths were attributed to candles compared with 90 reported candle-related deaths in 1990. This is not too surprising as seven out of 10 households use candles.
- Half of all home candle fires occur when some form of combustible material is left too close to a burning candle. Keep all curtains, bedding, clothing, paper, books, walls and other combustible materials away from a burning candle. Also, keep burning candles away from drafts, vents and ceiling fans. This prevents uneven burning and avoids flame flare-ups and sooting. Drafts can blow lightweight curtains or papers into the flame where they can catch fire.
- More candle fires occur in December. Because candles are frequently a part of holiday decorating and rituals, they contribute to almost twice as many candle fires as other months. Eleven percent of candle fires in December start when decorations ignite.
- A third of all candle fires start 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 search in a closet or when fueling equipment such as a lantern or kerosene heater.
- Always use a candleholder. The holder should be heat resistant, sturdy and large enough to contain any drips or melted wax. Place the candleholder on a stable, heat-resistant surface. This will help prevent possible heat damage to counters and table surfaces and prevent glass containers from cracking or breaking.
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