Candle fire safety
Twelve inches, never unattended, and out before bed.
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Why it matters
NFPA reminds us that a candle is an open flame, which means it can easily ignite anything that can burn.
Give it space
The U.S. Fire Administration says to keep candles at least 12 inches from anything that burns. NFPA says over half of candle fires started when something that can burn was too close.
Never leave it unattended
The NCA says never leave a burning candle unattended. The U.S. Fire Administration says to blow candles out when you leave a room or go to bed.
Put it out with care
The NCA says to use a snuffer or blow gently, and not to use water, which can make hot wax splatter.
Where not to burn
The U.S. Fire Administration says not to use lit candles in bedrooms, bathrooms, and sleeping areas, and to use flashlights in a power outage.
FAQ
General information only. Never leave a burning candle unattended, and keep it at least 12 inches from anything that can burn. When you heat wax, stay with it, and turn off the heat if you leave or see smoke. Never use water on a wax fire. If you can do so safely, slide a lid over the pot and turn off the heat; if the fire does not go out, get everyone out and call 911 from outside. Read and follow the Safety Data Sheet and instructions from the maker of every wax, wick, fragrance oil, and dye you use.
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