Fire and safety experts have warned people who have candles in their home to follow a few steps before, during and after they take a match to the wick. The new alert comes as experts state every day there are around 3 candle-related fires – or around 1,000 candle-related fires each year. Now, Fire & Evacuation Services have urged people to follow a few simple rules before they light another one.
For example, if a candle is burning out of control, do not use water. The organisation explained: “When water is poured onto a candle flame, it can cause the fire to grow rather than extinguish it. Water reacts negatively with the hot, melted wax, which causes the wax to splatter or explode, sending hot wax and flames into the air.
“The water can also intensify the fire by spreading burning wax or by feeding the flames with additional oxygen from the steam, creating a dangerous situation where the fire is not only harder to control, but the splattering wax cancause burns or damage nearby objects.”
To extinguish a candle that’s burning uncontrollably, experts have stressed the need to act quickly and safely. One of the safest ways to put out the flame is by covering it with a metal pot lid, a metal baking tray, or a fire blanket to cut off the oxygen and smother the fire.
The experts said: “For small candle fires, you can throw baking soda or salt onto the flames, which will help smother the fire by cutting off its oxygen supply. Using a fire extinguisher is also an effective option for small to medium-sized fires. Never use glass or ceramic lids, as they can shatter under the heat and make the situation worse.”
Another thing to be aware of is the risks of where you place the candle. The fire experts said: “Always burn candles in well-ventilated areas, away from drafts, and never leave them burning when you’re not in the room, especially if you have pets or children. Keep candles at least three inches apart to prevent them from melting each other, and always use sturdy, non-flammable holders.”
You should also ensure you cut the wick to 1/4 inch before lighting to prevent uneven burning or a large flame. They added: “Never burn candles down to the bottom, as the heat from the flame can cause the container to crack or break. Extinguish them when about 1/2 inch remains in the container, or 2 inches for pillar candles.”
