Candle Safety One -on- One: The Dos and Don'ts

Safety First 

It is friday night and its time to relax. You might think of lighting one of the candles you pick up from the store or the one you bought from the vendor show, before you do that there are some safety tips that you should be aware of. Burning candles safely is essential to prevent accidents and ensure a pleasant and worry-free experience. Here are some guidelines to follow when you are burning your newest candles:

Choose a Safe Location: Place the candle on a stable, heat-resistant surface away from flammable materials, drafts, and direct sunlight. Avoid placing candles near curtains, bedding, papers, or other items that can catch fire. Trim the wick to about 1/4 inch (6 mm) before lighting the candle. A longer wick can cause the candle to burn unevenly, produce more soot, and potentially lead to a larger flame.

You must always use a proper candleholders. If the candle is in a container, make sure the container is designed for candle use and can handle the heat. If you're using candleholders, ensure they are stable and won't tip over. Additionally, the burning candle should aways kept away from children and pets. Place candles in areas that are out of reach for children and pets. Curious pets or children might accidentally knock over a candle, causing a fire or injury.

You should never leave a burning candle unattended. It is important to always extinguish the candle before leaving the room or going to sleep. Never leave a burning candle unattended, as it poses a great fire risk. Wind or drafts can cause candles to burn unevenly, smoke excessively, or even go out unexpectedly. Keep windows and doors closed when burning candles. When you are done with the candle make sure to extinguish it properly. Use a candle snuffer or gently blow on the flame to extinguish the candle. Avoid using water to put out a candle, as it can cause splattering wax and potentially a fire hazard. Additionally, during the first burn, allow the wax to melt across the entire surface of the candle. This helps prevent tunneling, where the wax only melts in the center, leaving wax on the sides.

To prevent overheating and extend the life of the candle, limit each burn session to 3-4 hours. Allow the candle to cool for a few hours before relighting. It is crucial to monitor the flame. You should always keep an eye on the candle's flame while it's burning. If the flame becomes too large, flickers excessively, or produces black smoke, it may be a sign that something is wrong. Extinguish the candle if necessary. The ultimate goals is to create a candle-safe environment. Before you burn your candles make sure to educate your family members, especially children, about candle safety. Make sure they understand the importance of not playing with a burning candles and respecting the rules for safe candle use. Lastly, make sure to use the proper accessories. Consider using candle accessories like holders, trays, or shades to help contain the flame, catch dripping wax, and provide an added layer of safety.

By following these safety guidelines, you can enjoy the soothing ambiance and fragrance of your candles while minimizing the risks associated with candle use.