Check out these fire prevention tips for handling candles in your home or office.
Autumn is approaching, and candles are perfect for adding ambiance to any environment. Their scents make a room warm and welcoming, especially during fall. Fortunately, candle fires are only a tiny percentage of the cause behind residential fires. However, candles can result in a fire emergency if not handled with care. Recognizing the dangers behind candle usage and utilizing them safely can help prevent a fire emergency. Check out these fire prevention tips for handling candles in your home or office.
How Often Do Candle Fires Occur?
Even though candle fires cause a minor percentage of residential fires, people still lose their lives by improperly managing candles. Candle fires usually occur in the bedroom or because someone falls asleep without blowing out the candle. A fire emergency can also happen when a person puts a candle near combustible material, such as curtains, bedding, clothing, or paper products.
Fire Prevention Tips
Candles are perfect for Autumn, holiday parties, or when the power in your property goes out. They can go out of control if you don’t take precautions. Try out these fire prevention tips:
- Blow out your candles before heading to bed
- Place candles in areas where children or pets are unable to knock them over
- Blow out the candle if you are not there
- Make sure to blow out the candle if it burns within two inches of its holder (Candle holders are narrow and tend to fall over. It’s best to invest in one with a broader base to avoid knocking them over).
- Keep candles away from any flammable materials or liquids
- Sit far away from open flames so that your clothes don’t catch fire
- Never put a candle near a compressed air tank in your home
What to Do If You Experience a Power Outage
What should you do if you experience a power outage? Burning a candle is not ideal. Alternatively, consider battery-powered flashlights. These are safer than using candles to navigate your home in the dark. If you must use a candle, ensure not to walk and hold it simultaneously. Another fire prevention tip is to monitor your children and never utilize them to check the pilot lights of gas appliances when you must fuel equipment.
Commercial and Residential Fire Prevention from Judd Fire Protection
If you want to ensure your home and business are safe throughout the year, trust Judd Fire Protection, LLC. We have over two decades of experience designing, installing, inspecting, and repairing residential and commercial fire protection systems. We serve clients throughout Maryland, Pennsylvania, Washington, D.C., Virginia, and West Virginia. If you are interested in finding out more about our services and protecting your home and business, give us a call at 410-871-3480.