Candles are a common decoration found in homes, hotels, restaurants, and more. Whether they’re used to light up a room, provide ambiance, add a pleasant scent, or deodorize a space, candles are a simple way to add character to a room.
If not handled properly, candles can be dangerous and can start fires. How can you safely handle candles to help minimize your chance of a fire?
Common Types of Candles
There are a variety of candle types, differentiated by the type of wax and style:
- Soy Wax is a vegetable wax made from soybeans. Soy wax candles are a sustainable option that tend to burn slowly.
- Beeswax is a natural, eco-friendly choice, harvested from bees, that tends to burn longer than other types of wax.
- Paraffin Wax is a synthetic wax that comes from petroleum or crude oil. It’s often used in both scented and decorative candles.
- Tea Light Candles are small, flat candles, typically held in a plastic or metal container. They’re frequently used in restaurants and event spaces.
- Pillar Candles are tall, sturdy candles that tend to use a denser wax, making for a longer burn time.
- Multi-Wick Candles use two or more wicks for maximum light, and they’re frequently used in large spaces.
Facts About Candle Fires
A few insightful statistics about candle fires from The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):
- Approximately 20 candle fires are reported each day.
- From 2018 - 2022, an average of 5,910 home structure fires occurred each year, resulting in approximately $257 million in property damage.
- December is the peak month for home candle fires.
- Over a third of candle fires begin in bedrooms.
- Half of candle fires start when curtains, decorations, paper, clothing, and/or other décor are too close to a candle.
Candle Safety Tips
Consider these useful recommendations for candle safety:
- Don’t leave candles burning alone.
- Don’t use candles in bedrooms or places where people may fall asleep.
- Place candles in stable holders and make sure they can’t be easily knocked over.
- Place candles and/or candle holders on a sturdy, uncluttered surface.
- Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything flammable.
- Check each candle for a warning label. Different types of candles come with different warnings.
- Trim the wick to ¼ inch before lighting it.
- During a power outage, use a flashlight, rather than a candle.
- Blow out candles before going to bed or leaving the area.
- Don’t leave children or pets alone with a burning candle.
- Be sure matches are locked away and out of reach of children.
- Consider using battery-operated flameless candles, when appropriate.
- Light candles carefully. Make sure your hair, any loose clothing, or other items, is kept away.
- Don’t move a candle unless the wax has cooled.
- Don’t burn a candle all the way down. Put it out before it reaches the bottom of the container or holder.
SERVPRO is Here to Help®
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To find out more, contact us today or visit our FAQ and Glossary.