Candle Safety Isn't Brain Surgery, but It Saves Lives

Candle safety education is a high priority to us at Barcelona Bath & Body because many people are not aware of the proper steps for burning candles safely.  The National Candle Association reports that accidental candle fires account for approximately 5 percent of all U.S. residential fires. It’s not difficult to burn candles safely, but it does require knowledge, common sense and a measure of vigilance.
 
To avoid fire or injury: Trim wick to 1/4 inch before each burning. Keep flammable materials including matches, wick trimmings or dust out of the wax. Never leave a lit candle unattended or in reach of children or pets.  Don’t spray flammable liquids like hairspray and room spray near open flame.
 
Burn candles on a level, sturdy heat resistant surface in a draft-free (not under ceiling fan or air conditioner vent) area away from flammable items like draperies, bed linens, papers etc. for no longer than 4 hours. Do not move while lit or if wax/glass are hot. If the melt pool (shown above) gets deeper than 1/3 inch, extinguish and trim the wick.
 
To achieve maximum burn time, let melt pool reach the edges of the candle glass each time you burn your candle (takes about 3.5 hours for Grande Candles, 1.5 hours for Votives).  If you don’t have time to achieve a full melt pool (shown in this photo), Room Refresh® is a better option.
 
Visit www.candles.org/safety_rules.html for a comprehensive checklist of candle safety precautions.
 
With respect for fire, knowledge, common sense and a measure of caution, any adult can enjoy candles responsibly.

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