Candles During Christmas Season Can Pose Fire Danger

 

State Fire Marshal Robert R. Rielage of the Ohio Department of Commerce is warning Ohioans not to be fooled by the gentle appearance of candles.  Fires resulting from candle use increased dramatically since 1990, resulting in 3,895 fires, 22 deaths, 523 injuries and $41.8 million in damages from 1990 to 2000.

 

"The same sense of relaxation and comfort that draws people to candles also distracts them from their potential danger," said Rielage.  "However, the tremendous increase in the sale of candles should also bring an increase in people's awareness of the dangers associated with using an open flame."

 

In 1990, there were 188 fires resulting in 19 injuries, no deaths and $1.3 million in damages.  In 2000, there were 585 fires resulting in 98 injuries, no deaths and $9.3 million in damages.  The holiday season is the busiest in terms of candle fires.  From November 22, 2000 to December 31, 2000, there were 114 candle fires, nearly 20% of all candle fires in 2000.

 

An analysis conducted by the State Fire Marshal over a recent five-year period shows 36% of candle fires occur in the bedroom, while 20% occur in the living room/family room and 10% in the bathroom.  Additionally, a staggering 42% of candle fires in Ohio were caused by candles being left unattended.  Another 27% of candle fires during the same period were caused by candles being placed too close to combustible materials, followed by 8% due to children playing and 5% caused by individuals falling asleep without extinguishing candles.

 

“During the holiday season, we are reminded that good things come in small packages, so its fitting that we should also use this time to remind folks that dangerous things come in small packages," said Rielage.  "I urge everyone to exercise caution when using candles."  Rielage offered the following tips from the National Candle Association:

·       Never leave a burning candle unattended.  Extinguish all candles when leaving a room or before going to sleep.

·       Always burn candles on protected, heat-resistant surfaces specifically designed for candle use.  The holder should be big enough to collect dripping wax.

·       Keep candles away from anything flammable, such as furniture, drapes, bedding, carpets, books, flammable decorations, etc.

·       Avoid putting candles in drafts to prevent rapid, uneven burning or excessive dripping.  Drafts can also blow lightweight curtains or papers into the flame where they could catch fire.

·       Clean and trim candlewicks to 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch before lighting. Long or crooked wicks cause uneven burning and dripping. Keep candles free of wick trimmings, matches or any flammable material that might ignite.

·       Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets. Do not place lighted candles where they can be knocked over by children, pets or anyone else.

·       Discontinue use of a container or votive candle when 1/2-inch of unmelted wax remains. This will prevent possible heat damage to the counter/surface and prevent glass containers from cracking or breaking. Extinguish taper and pillar candles when they get down to within two inches of their holders or decorations.

·       Candles should be placed at least three inches apart so they don’t melt one another.

·       The best way to extinguish a candle is to use a special candle snuffer or candle quencher or, if not available, hold your finger in front of the flame and blow at your finger. The air will flow around the finger and extinguish the candle from both sides preventing hot wax from spattering.

·       Do not extinguish candles with water. The water can cause the hot wax to spatter and some candle containers to break.

·       Flashlights and other battery-powered lights are much safer light sources than candles during a power failure.

·       Don’t use a candle as light when you go into a closet to look for things.

·       Never use a candle for light when fueling lanterns or kerosene heater.

 

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