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Candle Safety
Candles can be pretty to look at, but they are a cause of home fires and home fire deaths. Remember, a candle is an open flame, which means that it can ignite anything that can burn. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), December is the peak month for home candle fires. More than one-third of home candle fires started in the bedroom with three of every five candle fires starting when things that can burn are too close to the candle.
Think about using battery powered flameless candles in your home. May different kinds can look and smell like real candles. If you choose to continue to use the traditional candles, make sure to keep these tips in mind.
- Light candles carefully. Keep your hair and loose clothing away from the flame.
- Don't burn candles all the way down-put it out before it gets close to the holder or container.
- Keep candles at least a 1 foot away from anything that can burn.
- Blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed. Avoid the use of candles in the bedroom or areas where people might sleep.
- Never leave children alone in a room with a burning candle. Keep matches and lighters up high out children's reach or in a locked cabinet.
- Use candle holders that are sturdy, and that won't tip over easily.
- Never us a candle if oxygen is used in the home.
Candle Fire Facts
– During the five-year period of 2015-2019:
– Candles caused 2% of reported home fires, 3% of home fire deaths, 6% of home fire injuries, and 4% of the direct property damage in home fires.
– Roughly one-third (37%) of home candle fires started in bedrooms. These fires caused 35% of the associated deaths and 47% of the associated injuries.
– Falling asleep was a factor in 10% percent of the home candle fires and 12% of the associated deaths.
– On average, 20 home candle fires were reported per day.
– Three of every five (60%) of home candle fires occurred when some form of combustible material was left or came too close to the candle.
– Candle fires peak in December and January with 11 percent of candles fires in each of these months.
Source: NFPA Research Division