Candle fires account for 2.4% of all fires and result in 6% of total injuries from fires and 3% of all fatalities from fires. The National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) reports candle fire incidents occur most often in the bedroom (45.2%), then in the family room (17.5%) and the bathroom (11.2%). The kitchen accounts for 6.3% of candle fire incidents. NFIRS alsoreports that the materials most often ignited by candles are cabinetry (9.4%); bedding (blankets, sheets, comforters, etc.) (7.7%); curtains and drapery (7.2%); mattresses & pillows (5.5%).85 percent of candle fires could be avoided if consumers followed three basic safety rules.
Before Lighting
Trim the wick to ¼ inch each time before burning. Long or crooked wicks can cause uneven burning, dripping, or flaring.
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Burn candles in a well-ventilated room.
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Place the candleholder on a stable, heat-resistant surface.
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Keep the wax pool clear of wick trimmings, matches and debris at all times.
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Avoid drafts, vents, or air currents. This will help prevent rapid or uneven burning, and sooting.
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Follow recommended burn times. This will ensure excessive heat buildup.
While Burning
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Never touch or move a burning candle. Never move a votive or container candle when the wax is liquefied.
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Do not burn a candle all the way down. For a margin of safety, discontinue burning a candle when 10% of the wax is left.
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Extinguish a candle if the flame becomes too high or flickers repeatedly. Let the candle cool, trim the wick, and check for unwanted drafts before relighting.
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Always keep the candle within your sight. If you are going to leave the room, be sure to first blowout all candles.
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Never leave a burning candle unattended.
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Never burn a candle on or near anything that might catch fire.
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Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets
When Extinguishing
Use a candle snuffer to extinguish a candle. It is the safest way to prevent hot wax from splattering.
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Never use water to extinguish a candle. Water can cause the hot wax to splatter and might break a glass container.
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Make sure the candle is completely snuffed and the wick ember is no longer glowing before leaving the room.
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Do not touch or move the candle until it has completely cooled.
