Safe Use of Candles in the Home

12/31/2019 (Permalink)

Place candles on a surface that's flat

Ways to Make Sure You're Using Candles Safely in Your Home

Every year in Palm Bay, FL, candle fire accidents damage homes and cause injuries. The necessary structural repairs often require professional fire restoration and smoke cleanup. These mishaps can be easily prevented by following a few common-sense tips. Here are some ways to make sure you’re using candles safely in your home.

1. Don't Leave Candles Unattended

Always be aware of where a candle is burning. Don't ever light a candle and leave the room without checking on it periodically. Watch how the air behaves around the candle; if the flame is shifting around, move the candle to a place where it stays steady.

2. Find a Safe Place

If you have pets or children, keep candles in a place that they can't reach. If placed on a low shelf or table, they can be knocked over easily and cause a candle fire. When not in use, candles, matches and lighters should be safely stored away in place that children can't get access to.

3. Secure the Candles

Place candles on a surface that's flat, sturdy and free of clutter. The surface should be heat-resistant as well. Keep the candle at least one foot away from any materials that might be flammable. If using candle holders, make sure to have a variety of sizes on hand. They should all have a secure base that can't be overturned easily.

4. Be Safe with Flames

Make sure your hair and any loose clothes are well out of the way when lighting candles. When it has burned down to about an inch, extinguish the candle and throw it away. It should never burn down so low that it's close to the candle holder.

Bedrooms are a no-go zone for candles. If you fall asleep and leave a candle burning unattended, there's a much higher risk of a fire. If there is an oxygen tank in use anywhere in the house, don't use candles at all.

It's easy to burn candles safely in your home. By following the tips outlined above, you can enjoy their light and warmth without having to worry about starting a candle fire.