Beware of Candle Flames

11/7/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball Please Call 281-374-6454

Candles may be pretty to look at but they are a cause of home fires and home fire deaths. According to the National Candle Association, 70% of households in the United States use candles. Most people don’t see candles as a major fire hazard, but according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) from 1983-1998 candles accounted for 8,690 fires, 104 deaths, 974 injuries and an estimated $126 million in property damage. Between 2001-2002 an estimated 18,000 fires were started by candles with 130 deaths, 1350 injuries and $333 million in property damage.

DON’T GET BURNED! FOLLOW THESE SAFETY TIPS!

• Use candles only with constant adult supervision
• Never leave a candle burning!
• Keep candles away from items that can catch fire, such as Christmas trees, clothing, paper or curtains
• Place candles and candleholders on a secure piece of furniture. Make sure candleholders are non-combustible and large enough to collect the dripping wax.
• Do not place candles in windows where blinds or curtains can close over them
• Keep wicks trimmed to 1/4 inch and extinguish candles when they burn to within 2 inches of the holder
• Keep candles and all open flames away from flammable liquids
Do not use candles in places where they can be knocked over by children or pets
• Always have a working smoke alarm!