4 Tips to Prevent Candle Fires

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

Battery powered candle

Help Prevent a Candle Fire in Your Home

Candles are a popular way to decorate your home. Unfortunately, they are also a common cause of fires. Use the following safety tips to help prevent a candle fire from starting in your Wilshire Heights, TX, house.

1. Do Not Leave Candles Unattended

The first thing to remember is that you should never leave a candle unattended. Whether you are leaving the house, going to bed or simply moving to a different room, you should always extinguish any lit candles first. This is especially true in homes with pets or small children who may knock them over unintentionally.

2. Place Candles in a Safe Location

When using candles, make sure that they are placed away from anything that could start a candle fire. Do not use them near flammable liquids or materials that may catch fire, such as curtains or bedding. Papers and books should be kept at a safe distance as well.

3. Use Appropriate Holders

While it is a good idea to place a candle in a holder rather than directly on the surface underneath, you should be sure that you are using one that is designed for this purpose. Some containers may not be resistant to heat and can melt or break when they become too hot. If this happens, a fire is likely to start.

4. Use an Alternative

Of course, the easiest way to prevent a candle fire is by not using candles at all. While they can contribute to a pleasant atmosphere, they do pose a safety risk. Fortunately, there are now a large number of products that mimic a candle’s properties. You can find battery-operated lights that give off a warm, flickering glow and provide a pleasant scent, similar to that of a candle.
Keeping these tips in mind can help you use candles more safely. However, in case you do experience a fire, it's a good idea to have the contact number of a local fire restoration company on hand. These professionals can help with everything from smoke cleanup to structural repairs.