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Ways to Prevent Indoor Fires
There’s nothing quite like the warm glow of a candle to create a cozy atmosphere at home. Whether you’re lighting one for relaxation, ambiance, or a special occasion, candles can enhance any space. However, without proper precautions, they can also pose a serious fire hazard. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), an average of 20 home candle fires are reported daily in the U.S., leading to hundreds of injuries and millions in property damage each year.
The good news? Most candle-related fires are preventable with simple safety measures. In this guide, we’ll cover essential candle safety tips to help you enjoy their beauty without risking your home or loved ones.
Why Candle Safety Matters
Candles may seem harmless, but an open flame is always a potential danger. Common causes of candle fires include:
- Leaving candles unattended
- Placing them near flammable materials (curtains, bedding, paper)
- Knocking them over accidentally
- Falling asleep while a candle is burning
By following best practices, you can significantly reduce these risks and keep your home safe.
Essential Candle Safety Tips
1. Never Leave a Burning Candle Unattended
This is the golden rule of candle safety. Always extinguish candles before leaving a room or going to bed. Even a brief distraction can lead to disaster if a candle tips over or ignites nearby objects.
2. Keep Candles Away from Flammable Materials
Place candles on a stable, heat-resistant surface at least 12 inches away from anything that can catch fire, including:
- Curtains, drapes, and blinds
- Bedding, pillows, and upholstered furniture
- Books, paper, and decorations
3. Use Proper Candle Holders
Always place candles in sturdy, non-flammable holders that can catch dripping wax. Glass, ceramic, or metal holders are ideal. Avoid using plastic or wooden containers that can melt or burn.
4. Trim the Wick Before Lighting
A long or crooked wick can cause uneven burning, excessive smoke, or a dangerously large flame. Trim the wick to ¼ inch before each use to maintain a steady, controlled flame.
5. Avoid Drafty Areas
Drafts from windows, fans, or air vents can cause candles to burn unevenly or flare up unexpectedly. Keep them in a still, well-ventilated area away from high-traffic spots where they might get knocked over.
6. Don’t Burn Candles All the Way Down
Extinguish a candle when ½ inch of wax remains in a container or 2 inches for pillar candles. Burning a candle too low can overheat the holder or surface, increasing fire risk.
7. Keep Candles Out of Reach of Children and Pets
Curious kids and playful pets can easily knock over a candle. Place them on high shelves or secure surfaces where they won’t be disturbed. Consider using flameless LED candles in households with small children or animals.
8. Use Alternatives When Possible
For worry-free ambiance, try battery-operated flameless candles or essential oil diffusers. They provide a similar effect without an open flame.
What to Do If a Candle Fire Starts
Even with precautions, accidents can happen. If a candle fire occurs:
- Stay calm and act quickly.
- Smother the flames with a metal lid, baking sheet, or fire blanket—never use water, as it can spread wax fires.
- Use a fire extinguisher if the flames grow.
- Evacuate immediately if the fire spreads and call 911.
Candle Safety for Power Outages
Many people rely on candles during power outages, but this is when fire risks spike. If you must use candles in an emergency:
- Place them in secure holders away from high-traffic areas.
- Never carry a lit candle while moving around.
- Consider using flashlights or battery-powered lanterns instead.
Maine Residents: Need Help with Fire Damage? Contact Us on (207) 531-1200!
If you’ve experienced a candle-related fire in your Maine home, don’t wait to get help. Smoke and fire damage can worsen over time, leading to costly repairs and health risks. Our team specializes in fire damage restoration and can help you recover quickly. Contact us today on (207) 531-1200 for professional assistance in restoring your home safely and efficiently.
Final Thoughts
Candles bring warmth and beauty to any space, but candles must be used responsibly. By following these safety tips, you can enjoy the glow of candles without putting your home at risk. Remember: a moment of carelessness with candles can lead to devastating consequences, so always prioritize safety when burning candles.
Do you have any candle safety tips to share? Let us know in the comments! And if you found this guide helpful, share it with friends and family to help prevent indoor fires caused by candles.
Stay safe and enjoy the cozy glow—responsibly!
PuroClean of Auburn 