This article provides fire safety ways to manage your candles with care.
According to NFPA, the rate of 98 injuries per 1,000 reported candle fires was nearly 3x the rate for all home structure fire causes in the United States during a five-year period of 2019-2023. The holidays are here, and candles are an optimum way to boost the ambiance of any occasion or environment. Their scents make the room welcoming and cozy. However, candle fires account for only a minor percentage of the reasons behind residential fires. Recognizing and understanding the dangers and fire safety risks associated with candle usage can help prevent a fire emergency. This article provides fire safety ways to manage your candles with care.
The Susceptibility of Candle Fires
Although kitchen fires or heater-related incidents tend to be more destructive, people still lose their lives due to inadequately handling candles. For instance, candle fires typically occur in the bedroom or when someone falls asleep without blowing out the candle.
A fire emergency may also occur when someone places a candle near combustible material, including bedding, clothing, curtains, and paper products. In particular, candle fires happen during holidays. This is why fire safety is crucial.
Preventing Candle Fires
Here is a list of some fire safety ways to manage your candles with care:
- Blow out your candles before heading to bed, or if you are no longer in the room
- Lit candles should be in areas where pets or children can’t knock them over
- Make sure to extinguish a lit candle if it burns within 2 inches of its holder
- Stay away from open flames so your clothing or other fabrics don’t catch fire
- Keep ignited candles away from any flammable materials, liquids, or decorations
- Burn candles in excellent, well-ventilated rooms in your property
- Don’t place a candle near a compressed air tank if you have one
Tips During a Power Outage
Burning a candle may not be the best thing to do during a power outage. Alternatively, battery-powered flashlights are optimal. If you must ignite a candle, ensure you do not walk and hold it simultaneously. If there are children or pets, always supervise them. Lastly, avoid using a lit candle to examine pilot lights or gas appliances when refueling equipment.
You can trust the experienced team at Judd Fire Protection to design a fire alarm system that will work for the distinct needs of your business or home. Call us today at 410-871-3480. We work with commercial and residential clients throughout Maryland, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Northern Virginia, and West Virginia.
Commercial and Residential Fire Prevention from Judd Fire Protection
If you want to ensure your home and business are safe throughout the year, trust Judd Fire Protection, LLC. We have over two decades of experience designing, installing, inspecting, and repairing residential and commercial fire protection systems. We serve clients throughout Maryland, Washington, D.C., Virginia, and West Virginia. If you are interested in finding out more about our services and protecting your home and business, call Judd Fire Protection at 410-871-3480. Follow us on Facebook, X, and Pinterest.