Few things can make a house smell as nice as an assortment of candles. With the number of different scents available, your olfactory options are practically limitless. And if you’re a candle enthusiast, you probably got some exotic fragrances on standby.
However, because candles produce an open flame, there are fire risks. The National Fire Protection Association indicates that candles cause 7,400 house fires each year. Although tiny, a candle’s flame can create a lot of damage, which is why you should take candle safety seriously. Brush up on these candle safety tips from ADS Security.
General Candle Safety Tips
With any open flame, you should never leave it unattended, and candles are no different. A small flame can still cause big problems, which is why you should always keep candles out of reach from children and pets and away from flammable items, such as curtains, papers, boxes, etc.
Additionally, here are some candle safety tips for before, during, and after burning one:
Before Burning
-Place the candle in a well-ventilated room to prevent uneven burning and excessive sooting.
-Trim the wick to ¼ inch before each use. This will prevent the flame from getting too large.
-Keep the wax pool clear of any debris that could catch fire while the candle burns.
-If the candle is not in a glass jar, use a candleholder.
-Do not place the candle near any vents, ceiling fans, or drafts.
-Make sure the candle is on a stable and heat-resistant surface
While Burning
-Don’t burn for longer than the manufacturer’s recommended burn time. Excessive burning leads to a carbon build-up, which creates a larger flame.
-Don’t touch or move the candle while it’s burning.
-Never use a candle as a night light or leave burning if you’re about to fall asleep.
-Avoid burning a candle during a power outage. Low visibility can increase the chance of fire accidents. Battery-powered flashlights are a much safer alternative.
-Have burning candles at least 3 inches apart. Avoid using candles sets where multiple wicks are near other.
After Burning
-A candle snuffer is the safest way to extinguish a candle. If the candle comes in a jar, closing the lid is also a safe method.
-Don’t move the candle until it has completely cooled (this includes the wax).
-Never use water to extinguish a candle. Water could cause the hot wax to splatter and could break glass containers.
-Never leave the room until a candle is fully extinguished.
Invest In a Fire Safety System
One of the best ways to protect your home from a candle fire or any type of fire is to invest in a fire safety system. That way you can immediately know when a potential fire starts and can instantly contact the fire department for assistance if needed.
At ADS Security, we can install security systems that fit your needs and budget. If would like to learn more about our products and what we can do to better protect your home, feel free to contact us today.
Categories: Fire, Safety Tips