Candles
The use of candles in the home has greatly increased over the past few years and so has the increase in the number of fires caused by their misuse.
Safe Candle Use:
There are now battery operated flameless candles available at most retail stores. These safer alternatives use small L.E.D. (luminated electric diode) bulbs that do not generate any heat and flicker to provide a realistic flame effect. These flameless candles are also extremely efficient and have a long duration on battery power. Some designs incorporate air fresheners and scents that are as realistic as a burning candle. The use of flameless candles as a substitute for real flames virtually eliminates the possibility of a candle fire in your home or workplace.
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Use sturdy candle holders that won't tip over easily and are made from non combustable materials.
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Keep dripping wax in the candle holder. Wax can act as a wick and carry a flame to a combustible item.
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Candle holders should be placed on a sturdy, uncluttered surface. They should be kept away from the edge and out of reach from childrens hands.
- Keep hair and loose clothing away from a lit candle.
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Keep candle wicks trimmed. It is recommended they are kept one-quarter inch from the top of the candle.
- Extinguish candles when they are burnt down to within two inches of their holder or any decorative material. Do not use this candle again.
- Extinguish candles carefully. Never leave the room until the wick(s) have stopped glowing.
- Do not use candles in bedrooms or sleeping areas
- Keep candles at least one foot from anything that can burn including beding, curtains and blinds, wallpaper, upholstered furniture, clothing, newspapers, etc.
- Never leave a burning candle unattended.
Candle Safety During Power Outages:
Avoid using candles for emergency lighting. Always keep flashlights and/or battery-powerd lamps and a stock of fresh batteries in a designated area. Something so simple can be a life saver.
For more information, please contact the Fire Prevention office at 905-637-9536