Safety and Fire Prevention - Candle Safety
Over the past few years, the use of candles in the home has greatly increased - and so has the number of fires caused by their misuse. Candles have become a popular decoration in our homes. The wide variety of colours, shapes and scents have helped candle sales become a several billion dollar a year industry.
A Growing Concern
The growing number of candle fires are a concern for fire departments across the country. The number of home fires caused by candles has been soaring in recent years and jumped a startling 20 percent according to the National Fire Protection Association.
How does such a little flame become so dangerous? Misuse!
Candle fires most commonly occur when the candles are left unattended or something that catches fire easily is left too close to the flame.
Prevention
Follow these basic rules to prevent a fire from starting in your home:
- Always keep burning candles within sight. Extinguish all candles when leaving the room or before going to sleep.
- Always use a candle holder specifically designed for candle use. The holder should be heat resistant, sturdy and large enough to contain any drips or melted wax.
- Place lit candles where they won’t be knocked over by children, pets or anyone else. Better yet, if you have pets or children in the home do not use candles.
- Keep burning candles away from furniture, drapes, bedding, carpets, books, flammable decorations etc.
- Extinguish pillar and taper candles when they burn to within two inches of the holder. Discontinue burning votive and container candles before the last half inch of wax melts.
Protection
Make sure your home has theses safety features to help keep you safe:
- Smoke Alarms - All homes are required to have working smoke alarms on every level. Smoke alarms should be tested every month and batteries changed at least once a year.
- Home Escape Plan - Every family should develop a home escape plan that includes a meeting spot and practice it with all members of the household.
Remember, even with these safety features, prevention is still the best strategy! Stop the fires before they start.
In case of fire or an emergency, call 9-1-1.
