Maddie James
Candles are a leading cause of fires in the home, with U.S. fire departments responding to an average of 7,610 candle-related house fires each year. Between 2009 and 2013, 9,300 home structure fires were caused by candles, resulting in 86 deaths, 827 injuries, and $374 million in property damage. To prevent candle-related fires, it is recommended to keep burning candles away from flammable objects, never leave a candle unattended, and keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of home structure fires started by candles every year | 7,610 |
| Number of candle fires that could be avoided by following safety rules | 85% |
| Number of candle fires that start in the bedroom | 36% |
| Number of candle fires where sleep was a factor | 10% |
| Number of candle fires that start when a flammable piece of décor is too close | 50% |
| Number of candle fires where candles were left unattended, discarded, or misused | 21% |
| Number of candle fires reported daily | 20-25 |
| Number of candle fires between 2009 and 2013 | 9,300 |
| Number of deaths caused by candle fires between 2009 and 2013 | 86 |
| Number of injuries caused by candle fires between 2009 and 2013 | 827 |
| Amount of direct property damage caused by candle fires between 2009 and 2013 | $374 million |
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What You'll Learn
Leading cause of home fires
Candles are a leading cause of home fires. On average, 20 to 25 home candle fires are reported each day in the US, with fire departments responding to around 7,610 to 9,300 home structure fires started by candles annually. These fires have resulted in deaths, injuries, and millions of dollars in property damage.
The majority of candle fires start when a flammable piece of décor, furniture, bedding, curtains, clothing, or other combustible materials are placed too close to the candle's flame. It is recommended to keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can catch fire. Additionally, candles should not be left unattended or within reach of children or pets.
To prevent candle-related fires, it is important to follow basic safety precautions. This includes ensuring that candles are in stable holders and placed where they cannot be easily knocked over. Candles should not be burned for longer than four hours at a time and should be allowed to cool for at least two hours before relighting. It is also important to trim the wick to ¼ inch before burning to prevent uneven burning, dripping, or flaring.
By following these safety guidelines, the risk of candle-related fires can be significantly reduced, helping to keep your home and family safe.
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Safety precautions
Candles are one of the leading causes of fires in the home. Between 20 and 25 home candle fires are reported each day, with U.S. fire departments responding to an average of 7,610 home candle fires per year. These fires can cause death, injury, and property damage. To avoid candle fires, consider using battery-operated flameless candles, which can look, smell, and feel like real candles. If you do choose to use real candles, follow these safety precautions:
- Never leave a burning candle unattended. Extinguish candles before leaving a room or going to sleep.
- Keep candles away from flammable materials, including furniture, mattresses, bedding, curtains, paper, clothing, and other home decorations. A good rule of thumb is to maintain a distance of at least 12 inches between a burning candle and anything that can catch fire.
- Keep candles out of reach of children and pets, and do not place them where they can be easily knocked over.
- Follow the manufacturer's recommendations on burn time and proper use. In general, it is recommended that candles burn for no longer than four hours and cool for at least two hours before relighting.
- Before lighting a candle, trim the wick to ¼ inch to prevent uneven burning, dripping, or flaring.
- Use long matches or a long-reach lighter to ignite the candle, and keep your hair and loose clothing away from the flame.
- Do not touch or move a candle while it is burning or while the wax is liquefied.
- Discontinue burning a candle when ½ inch of wax remains in the container or 2 inches if using a pillar candle.
By following these safety precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of a candle fire in your home.
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Peak times for candle fires
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), December is the peak month for home candle fires. More than one-third of these fires start in the bedroom, with three out of every five candle fires occurring when flammable objects are placed too close to the candle.
Candles are a common cause of home fires and home fire-related deaths. On average, 20-21 home candle fires are reported each day in the US, with fire departments responding to 7,610 home structure fires started by candles annually.
To prevent candle fires, it is recommended that candles are not burned for longer than four hours and are allowed to cool for at least two hours before relighting. Candles should be kept away from drafts, such as open windows or fans, as moving air can disturb the flame. Before lighting a candle, the wick should be trimmed to ¼ inch, and any debris, such as wick trimmings or matches, should be removed from the wax pool. Long or crooked wicks can cause uneven burning, dripping, or flaring, increasing the risk of a fire.
It is also important to never leave a candle unattended and to keep them out of the reach of children and pets. Candles should be placed in stable holders and kept away from flammable objects, such as furniture, drapes, bedding, and paper.
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Candle alternatives
On average, 20 to 21 home candle fires are reported each day in the US, with December being the peak month for candle fires. Candle alternatives can help you avoid the risk of fires while still enjoying the ambiance and fragrance of candles. Here are some safer options to consider:
Battery-Operated Flameless Candles
Battery-operated flameless candles can look, smell, and feel like real candles without the fire hazard. They are a great alternative that provides the same cozy atmosphere as traditional candles. These candles are safe to use and can be left unattended without worry. You can find them in various shapes, sizes, and scents to suit your preferences.
Wax Warmers
Wax warmers, also known as candle warmers, are devices that gently melt scented wax to release fragrance into the air. They are a safer alternative to candles as they do not involve an open flame. Many wax warmers have automatic shut-off timers, adding a layer of safety. Wax warmers come in different styles and designs to match your home decor.
Essential Oil Diffusers
Essential oil diffusers offer a flameless way to fill your space with fragrance. They disperse essential oils into the air, creating a pleasant aroma and, in some cases, providing mood-boosting benefits. Diffusers come in various types, including plug-in wall diffusers and tabletop models. They are a safe and natural alternative to scented candles, allowing you to enjoy your favorite scents without the risk of an open flame.
Fairy Lights
For ambiance, consider using fairy lights. These tiny lights can create a magical and cozy atmosphere in any space. They are often battery-operated or plug-in, providing a safe alternative to candles. Fairy lights come in various colors and styles, allowing you to decorate and illuminate your home in a unique and fire-free way.
Natural and Non-Toxic Candles
If you still want to enjoy traditional candles, opt for natural and non-toxic options. Avoid candles made with paraffin wax, which can release harmful chemicals when burned. Instead, choose candles made with beeswax, coconut wax, or soy wax. Look for candles scented with essential oils or natural fragrances to ensure a healthier burning experience.
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Fire damage restoration
Candles are a common cause of house fires, with nearly 10,000 residential fires attributed to candles in the United States every year. The National Fire Protection Association reports that candle-related fires cause an average of 7,610 structural fires annually. These fires can cause extensive damage to property, and even lead to injuries and loss of life.
To prevent candle-related fires, it is crucial to follow basic fire safety practices. Here are some essential tips to minimize the risk of a candle fire:
- Never leave a burning candle unattended. Extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to bed.
- Keep candles away from flammable objects, including furniture, drapes, bedding, mattresses, paper, clothing, and home decorations. Maintain a distance of at least 12 inches.
- Use stable candle holders and place them on sturdy, level, heat-resistant surfaces.
- Keep candles out of reach of children and pets.
- Trim the wick to 1/4 inch before lighting to ensure even burning and prevent flaring.
- Avoid burning candles for longer than four hours at a time, and allow them to cool for at least two hours before relighting.
- Do not burn candles in rooms with drafts, vents, fans, or air currents, as these can cause uneven burning and flare-ups.
Despite taking precautions, candle fires can still occur. In the event of a candle fire, it is important to act quickly to minimize damage:
- Extinguish the flame: Do not use water, as it can cause hot wax to splash and spread the fire. Instead, use a fire extinguisher or smother the flame with a lid or a damp towel.
- Ventilate the area: Open windows and doors to allow smoke and fumes to escape.
- Assess the damage: Conduct a thorough inspection to determine the extent of the fire and smoke damage.
- Contact professionals: Reach out to fire restoration services, such as SERVPRO® or ServiceMaster of Lake Shore, for assistance in cleaning and restoring your home. They have trained professionals who are available 24/7 to help with fire, smoke, and water damage restoration.
Additionally, consider using battery-operated flameless candles, which can mimic the look, smell, and feel of real candles without the fire risk. These candles can be a safer alternative, especially during the busy holiday season when candle-related fires are more frequent.
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Frequently asked questions
On average, there are 7,610 home structure fires started by candles every year in the US.
Candle-related fires are often caused by leaving candles unattended, or placing them too close to flammable objects such as furniture, mattresses, bedding, curtains, paper, and clothing.
Here are some safety tips to prevent candle-related fires:
- Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything flammable.
- Never leave a candle unattended.
- Keep candles out of reach of children and pets.
- Do not burn a candle for longer than four hours and allow it to cool for two hours before relighting.
To avoid the risk of candle-related fires, one can opt for battery-operated flameless candles, which can look, smell, and feel like real candles.
