Candle Safety: 10 Tips to Keep Your Home Safe and Cozy
Share
Candles add a touch of warmth and ambiance to any room, making them a popular choice for home decor and relaxation. However, it’s important to remember that candles are an open flame and can pose a fire hazard if not used properly. Here are some essential candle safety tips to ensure you can enjoy your scented candles safely.
Why Candle Safety is Important
According to the National Fire Protection Association, candles cause an estimated 8,200 home fires each year1. These fires can result in significant property damage, injuries, and even fatalities. By following basic candle safety guidelines, you can prevent accidents and keep your home safe while enjoying the soothing glow and delightful scents of your candles.
Safety Tips for Using Candles
- Never Leave a Burning Candle Unattended
- One of the most important rules of candle safety is to never leave a burning candle unattended. Always extinguish candles when you leave a room or go to bed. This simple step can prevent many potential fire hazards.
- Keep Candles Away from Flammable Objects
- Ensure that candles are placed at least 12 inches away from anything that can catch fire, such as curtains, bedding, books, and paper2. This reduces the risk of accidental fires caused by nearby flammable materials.
- Use Proper Candle Holders
- Always use candle holders that are sturdy, heat-resistant, and designed for candle use. This helps contain any drips or melted wax and prevents the candle from tipping over1.
- Trim the Wick
- Before lighting a candle, trim the wick to about ¼ inch. Long or crooked wicks can cause uneven burning, dripping, or flaring1. Trimming the wick helps the candle burn more efficiently and reduces the risk of a high flame.
- Burn Candles in a Well-Ventilated Room
- Avoid burning candles in drafty areas or near vents and fans. Drafts can cause uneven burning, excessive dripping, and sooting1. A well-ventilated room ensures a steady flame and a cleaner burn.
- Keep Candles Out of Reach of Children and Pets
- Place candles where they cannot be easily knocked over by children or pets. Curious hands and paws can lead to accidents, so it’s best to keep candles on stable surfaces out of their reach1.
- Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions
- Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for burn time and proper use. Generally, it’s advised not to burn candles for more than four hours at a time and to let them cool for at least two hours before relighting1.
- Use a Candle Snuffer to Extinguish Flames
- Instead of blowing out a candle, use a candle snuffer to extinguish the flame. This prevents hot wax from splattering and reduces the risk of accidentally spreading the flame1.
- Don’t Burn a Candle All the Way Down
- For safety, discontinue burning a candle when about ½ inch of wax remains in the container or 2 inches if using a pillar candle. This prevents overheating and potential damage to the surface beneath the candle1.
- Be Cautious During Power Outages
- While candles can provide light during power outages, it’s safer to use flashlights or battery-powered lights. If you do use candles, place them in stable holders and keep them away from flammable materials2.
Conclusion
By following these candle safety tips, you can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of candles without compromising your safety. Remember, a little caution goes a long way in preventing accidents and ensuring that your home remains a cozy and safe haven. At Scentalicious by Leigh, we prioritize your safety and well-being, so you can focus on bringing good vibes to every room with our delightful scented candles.
Stay safe and enjoy the glow!
Shop Scentalicious by Leigh for your favorite candles
Learn More: