Candle Safety Discussions

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One of my teenage daughters recently began burning candles in her bedroom to set the right mood for her homework and Facebook sessions. This did not seem to pose a problem until one day when I noticed a lit
candle sitting directly on a stack of papers on her desk. This prompted me to find out more about home fires started by candles. Statistics compiled by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) indicate that:

• 55 percent of home candle fires begin because the candle is too close to combustible material
• More candle fires begin in the bedroom than in any other room
• Children and older adults have the highest death risk from candle fires.

It was a bit unnerving to see that my daughter’s candle burning habits were
associated with three of the identified risk factors. I then went to the U.S. Fire Administration’s (USFA) Web site and found candle fire safety tips that include:

• Avoid using lighted candles
• If you do use candles, ensure they are in sturdy metal, glass or ceramic
holders and placed where they cannot be easily knocked down
• Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets
• Set a good example by using matches, lighters and fire carefully
• Children should never be allowed to play with matches, lighters or candles
• Never put candles on a Christmas tree
• Never leave the house with candles burning
• Extinguish candles after use
• Establish a fire-safe home, especially a safe sleeping environment
• And NEVER leave burning candles unattended

My daughter and I discussed candle safety, and I feel better knowing that she now has a better understanding of the potential risks and safe practices that should be followed. Hopefully, she will maintain and apply this awareness throughout her life. How about you and your family? Is it time for you to have a discussion with your spouse, children, parents and loved ones to make sure that they are aware of candle safety concerns and safe practices? Be safe, folks!