Using Candles Safely
Candles provide a beautiful, soft, romantic light and are handy when the power goes out, but they should be used with caution to avoid causing a fire. Here are some tips for using candles safely
- Always place your candles in a suitable fire resistant candleholder
- Make sure the candleholder holds the candle light firmly and is on a flat and stable surface to stop it falling over.
- Always put the candleholder on a heat resistant surface like a ceramic plate. Candles that burn down can melt plastic surfaces or set wooden or painted surfaces on fire.
- Always leave at least four inches between burning candles and never place them under shelves or other enclosed spaces.
- Keep candles, matches and lighters out of the reach of children and pets.
- Keep candles away from curtains, furniture and anything else that can catch fire.
- Keep loose clothing and hair away from candles when they are lit.
- Always put candles out and leave to cool down before you try to move them.
- Always put candles out when you are out of the room and when you go to sleep.
- Use a candle ‘snuffer’ or a metal spoon to put the candle out – it is safer than blowing them out which can send sparks and hot wax flying.