With the arrival of cooler weather and darker days, the use of candles and other types of festive lighting increases. Unfortunately, the number of fires caused by candles also increases. A recent home fire that started from a candle left unattended in a living room provides another reminder about the potential damage from a single flame.
Candles are used in 70% of US American households. Yet, a study by the National Fire Protection Association shows that only 30% of adults who use candles have a specific household rule to never leave a burning candle unattended.
Consider adopting the following candle safety rules in your home:
- Always keep burning candles within sight. Extinguish all candles when leaving a room or before going to sleep.
- Always use a candleholder specifically designed for candle use. The holder should be heat resistant, sturdy and large enough to contain any drips or melted wax.
- Keep burning candles away from items that can catch on fire such as furniture, drapes, bedding, carpets, books, paper, etc.
- If light is needed during a power outage, use battery-operated light source instead of candles.
