Blow it Out, Before You Go Out!

Prevent candle fires.

Candle use has risen greatly in the past decade, but unfortunately so have candle fires. In the last ten years, 16 Oregonians lost their lives in candle related fires. A few simple actions can prevent a candle fire from occurring.

• Stay in the same room with burning candles; never leave them burning unattended. Most candle fires start when they are left burning unattended. Always make sure candles are blown out before leaving home or going to bed.
• Keep candles away from things that can burn.
• Keep candles at least one foot away from clothing, curtains, upholstered furniture, greenery, decorations and any other flammable items. Always use a sturdy metal, glass or ceramic candleholder.
• Place candles out of reach of children and pets. Many candle fires are started when children touch or play with them, or when pets knock them over.
• Keep wicks trimmed to one-quarter inch. This keeps the candle from smoking.
• Avoid candles with combustible items embedded in them such as twigs, flowers or leaves. These items can ignite and even explode, causing a fire.