Candles and Incense

1/13/2023 (Permalink)

As many of us received candles as gifts for the holidays, it's wise to be cautious prior to use.

Candles and incense are often used to create ambiance or help celebrate a special event, but they are open flames that pose a threat of fire. Most candle fires take place in the bedroom, and many occur when candles are left unattended. In addition, the winter holidays and New Year’s Eve are peak times for candle fires, so be sure to exercise caution when celebrating with open flames.

Candle and Incense Basics

• Remember: candles and burning incense are open flames, and the safest option is not to have them in your home
• Never leave candles or incense unattended, and always extinguish them before leaving the room or going to sleep
• Keep candles and incense away from curtains, clothing, books and newspapers, and other combustible items
• Keep candles and incense away from flammable liquids (i.e., alcohol, oil, etc.)
• Use durable candle holders, which are made of non-combustible materials, are big enough to collect wax drippings, and don’t tip over easily
• Trim candle wicks to one-quarter inch, and maintain this wick length throughout the candle’s life
• Extinguish taper and pillar candles when their wax melts down to within two inches of the holder, and extinguish votives and other encased candles before the last half inch of wax starts to melt
• Use flashlights during blackouts instead of candles, and always avoid carrying lit candles whenever possible