Many Americans enjoy burning scented candles in their homes. Did you know that candles cause fires and injuries to Americans each year? These statistics come from the 5 year period of 2003-2007, “more that one-third (36%) of home candle fires started in bedrooms. These fires caused 44% of the associated deaths and half (49%) of the associated injuries…Falling asleep was a factor in 12% of the home candle fires and 36% of the associated deaths…More than half (55%) of home candle fires occurred when some form of combustible material was left or came too close to the candle. December is the peak time of year for home candle fires. In December, 13% of home candle fires began with decorations compared to 4% the rest of the year.”
Candle safety tips from the NFPA include:
- Blow out candles; do not leave them unattended. Do not use candles in bedrooms or other rooms where people will fall asleep and leave them burning. Candles should never be placed closer than 12 inches away from burnable objects/decorations.
- Use sturdy candle holders that won’t tip over. Place the candles on uncluttered, sturdy table surface.
- Keep candles away from children and pets. I repeat, Keep candles, matches and lighters safely away from children.
- When lighting candles, you should keep your hair and clothing away from the flame. When the candle burns low, it should be extinguished, let cool and discarded safely.
- Never use candles if someone in the house uses oxygen for a medical condition.
- Use flashlights if the electricity goes out, never candles.
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