Candle Safety

Hillsboro Fire Department
 

 

Facts and Tips:

 

  • The US Fire Administration reports there are an estimated 15,260 home candle fires each year.

    • If possible, avoid using lighted candles.  Select battery-powered candle lights.
  • There are an estimated 166 home candle fire deaths each year.

    • If you must use candles, ensure they are in wide, deep, sturdy holders.
  •  
  • There are an estimated 1,289 home candle fire injuries each year.
    • Keep candles away from children and pets
     
  • 5% of home candle fires start because the candle is too close to combustible materials.
    • Keep candles away from any combustible materials.  Don't embed candles in combustible materials such as Christmas decorations.
  • 36% of home candle fires begin in the bedroom, more than in any other room.
    • Never leave the room with a candle left burning.
  • One half of candle fire deaths occure between Midnight and 6 am.
    • Never go to sleep with a candle left burning.

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Kids and Candles:

 

  • Keep candles up high, out of the reach of children.
  • Never leave a child unattended in a room with a candle. A child should not stay in a room with a lit candle.
  • Don't allow children or teens to have candles in their bedrooms.
  • Store candles, matches, and lighters up high and out of children's sight and reach preferably in a locked cabinet.

 

Candles and Power Outages:

 

  • Try to avoid carrying a lit candle.
  • Don't use a lit candle when searching for items in small spaces (e.g. closets, cupboards, and dressers).
  • Never use a candle for a light when checking pilot lights or while adding fuel to equipment, such as a kerosene heater or lantern. The flame may ignite the fumes.
  • Use battery-powered flashlights or battery-powered camping lanterns in the event of a power outage.

 

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