Candles must be handled with care

by Staff Pioneer Times
14 years ago

    During 2003-07, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 15,260 home structure fires started by candles per year.
    These fires caused an annual average of 166 civilian deaths, 1,289 civilian fire injuries, and $450 million in direct property damage. Candles caused 4 percent of the reported home fires, 6 percent of home fire deaths, 10 percent of home fire injuries, and 7 percent of direct property damage during this period. Homes include dwellings, duplexes, manufactured housing and apartments.
Facts and figures?
    During the five-year period of 2003-07:
    • More than one-third (36 percent) of home candle fires started in bedrooms. These fires caused 44 percent of the associated deaths and half (49 percent) of the associated injuries.
    • On average, 42 home candle fires were reported per day. Falling asleep was a factor in 12 percent percent of the home candle fires and 36 percent of the associated deaths.
    • More than half (55 percent) of home candle fires occurred when some form of combustible material was left or came too close to the candle.
    • December is the peak time of year for home candle fires. In December, 13 percent of home candle fires began with decorations compared to 4 percent the rest of the year.
Candle with care
    • Blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed. Avoid the use of candles in the bedroom and other areas where people may fall asleep.
    • Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn.
    If you do burn candles, make sure that you:
    • Use candle holders that are sturdy, and won’t tip over easily.
    • Put candle holders on a sturdy, uncluttered surface.
    • Light candles carefully. Keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame.
    • Don’t burn a candle all the way down — put it out before it gets too close to the holder or container.
    • Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home.
    • Have flashlights and battery-powered lighting ready to use during a power outage. Never use candles.
Source: NFPA’s “Home Candle Fires ” report by Marty Ahrens, June 2010.