Candle Safety
Candle fires are one of the few types of home fires that have increased dramatically over the past decade, and four out of ten home candle fires start in bedrooms.
Burning candles are a prohibited item in residence halls. Candles with wicks, both new or previously burned, are also prohibited, because they still present the potential for burning. Wax candles are only allowed in on-campus housing if the wick is removed. Flameless candles are an encouraged alternative.
Candle Safety Tips for Off-Campus Use
- Extinguish all candles when leaving the room or going to sleep.
- Keep candles away from flammable items like clothing, books and curtains.
- Use candle holders that are sturdy, won't tip over easily, are made from a material that cannot burn and are large enough to collect dripping wax. Be sure the candle holder is placed on a stable, heat-resistant surface.
- Keep candles and open flames away from flammable liquids.
- Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.
- Read and carefully follow all manufacturer instructions. Do not burn a candle for longer than the manufacturer recommends.
- Always burn candles in a well-ventilated room.
- Keep candle wicks trimmed to one-quarter inch and extinguish taper and pillar candles when they get to within two inches of the holder. Votives and containers should be extinguished before the last half-inch of wax starts to melt.
- Keep the wax pool free of wick trimmings, matches and debris at all times.
- Keep burning candles away from drafts, ceiling fans, vents and air currents. Drafts can blow lightweight curtains or papers into the flame where they could catch fire. This will also help prevent rapid, uneven burning, smoking and excessive dripping.
- Do not extinguish candles with water. The water can cause the hot wax to spatter and shatter glass containers.
- One of the safest ways to extinguish a candle is to use a candle snuffer, which helps prevent hot wax from spattering.
- Never use a candle as light when you go into a closet or other small space.
- During power outages, use flashlights and avoid carrying a lit candle.
Candles may look nice, but they are a growing fire threat in our communities. Knowing about candles is key to fire safety.
