Keep Candle Safety a Top Priority

Once, while visiting a friend, we happened to glance at a candle burning on her piano just as the flame touched a dried flower wall hanging immediately above. Instantly it caught fire, but fortunately we put it out within seconds. The lesson here is to be very aware of your candle’s flame, keeping it a safe distance from flammable objects. Since we want to make sure that you always enjoy candles safely, here are some candle safety tips to keep in mind.

The most important thing is to never leave a burning candle unattended. Even with a jar candle the flame can reach above the top of the jar. If you are enjoying a scented candle, just light it in the room you plan to spend the most time in. Though it may be more romantic with candlelight in your bedroom, keep things safe by extinguishing that flame before going to sleep.

Put your candles in a candle holder that will not easily tip, and place the candle and holder on a solid, heat resistant surface. Choose a place out of the reach of pets and children, so the candle cannot be accidentally knocked over. Make sure flammable objects, like lampshades or curtains, are at least 3 feet away.

Keep the wick of your candle trimmed to about ¼ inch. This will prevent excessive smoking from the wick, so you can enjoy the beautiful scent rather than anything else!

Finally, when the candle is only ½ inch tall or deep, or the container cracks, it is time to say goodbye to that one. Better to start burning a new candle than take any chances.

Enjoyed safely, candles add color and beauty to our lives. By following these simple candle safety ideas, candles can be part of your life forever.