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Candle Safety
Candles are safe products, but unless they are used safely and watched carefully, they can lead to an accidental fire. Remember, that the candle can be a major cause of dangerous fires in households. An estimated 18,000 candle fires are reported annually. According to fire experts, the bulk of candle-fire incidents are due to consumer inattention to basic fire safety or to the misuse of candles. The best way to avoid hazards is to follow these simple guidelines for burning candles safely:
- Always keep a burning candle within sight.
- Never burn a candle on or near anything that can catch fire.
- Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.
- Trim candlewicks to 1/4 inch each time before burning.
- Always use a candleholder specifically designed for candle use.
- Be sure the candleholder is placed on a stable, heat-resistant surface.
- Be sure the candleholder is placed on a stable, heat-resistant surface.
- Always read and follow the manufacturer's use and safety instructions carefully. Don't burn a candle longer than the manufacturer recommends.
- Keep burning candles away from drafts, vents, ceiling fans and air currents.
- Always burn candles in a well-ventilated room.
- Don't burn a candle all the way down. Extinguish the flame if it comes too close to the holder or container. For a margin of safety, discontinue burning a candle when 2 inches of wax remains or 1/2 inch if in a container.
- Never touch a burning candle or move a votive or container candle when the wax is liquid.
- Never use a knife or sharp object to remove wax drippings from a glass holder. It might scratch, weaken, or cause the glass to break upon subsequent use.
- Place burning candles at least three inches apart from one another.
- Use a candle snuffer to extinguish a candle.
- Never extinguish candles with water. The water can cause the hot wax to splatter and might cause a glass container to break.
- Be very careful if using candles during a power outage. Flashlights and other battery-powered lights are safer sources of light during a power failure. Never use a candle during a power outage to look for things in a closet, or when fueling equipment - such as a lantern or kerosene heater.
- Make sure a candle is completely extinguished and the wick ember is no longer glowing before leaving the room.
- Extinguish a candle if it smokes, flickers repeatedly, or the flame becomes too high.
- Never use a candle as a night light.