Hey there, candle enthusiasts! We all love the cozy, warm glow that candles bring to our spaces. Some look pretty, some smell pretty, and some are just work candles, like my spell candles. But before you dive into a world of flickering flames, let's review some safety tips. So grab your favorite candle, sit back, and let's learn how to keep the flame in check!
Never leave a burning candle unattended: Always extinguish candles before leaving a room or going to sleep. Unattended candles pose a significant fire hazard and can lead to accidents or property damage.
Keep candles away from flammable materials: Ensure that candles are placed on sturdy, heat-resistant surfaces and away from curtains, paper, bedding, or any other flammable materials. Even a small flame can ignite nearby objects.
Keep candles out of reach of children and pets: Children and pets are curious by nature and may accidentally knock over a candle or get too close to the flame. Place candles in a secure location where they cannot be reached or knocked over.
Trim candle wicks to ¼ inch: Long wicks can cause uneven burning, excessive smoke, and dripping. Before lighting a candle, ensure that the wick is trimmed to a quarter of an inch to promote a stable flame and reduce the risk of accidents.
Avoid overcrowding candles: When lighting multiple candles, ensure they are adequately spaced apart. Overcrowding can increase the heat and cause candles to melt or drip wax, leading to potential fire hazards.
Use appropriate candle holders: Place candles in sturdy, non-combustible holders that are specifically designed for candle use. Avoid using containers that may crack or shatter due to heat.
Extinguish candles properly: Use a snuffer or gently blow out the flame to extinguish a candle. Avoid using water, as it can cause hot wax to splatter. Double-check that the flame is completely extinguished before leaving the area.
Avoid moving a burning candle: Hot wax can spill or splatter if a candle is moved while lit. Always extinguish the flame and allow the wax to cool before moving a candle to another location.
Mind the draft: Keep candles away from drafts, such as open windows or air vents. Drafts can cause candles to burn unevenly, increasing the risk of accidents.
Be cautious with scented candles: Some scented candles may contain flammable oils. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe use, and avoid placing scented candles near sensitive areas, such as electronics or fabrics.
Remember these guidelines for practicing candle safety. Following them diligently can help prevent accidents, fires, and injuries associated with candle use.