Candle Safety: Simple Precautions to Prevent Serious Injury

At our law firm, we’ve seen firsthand the devastating consequences that fires and explosions can cause. Many of the personal injury cases we’ve handled involve injuries resulting from house fires—some of which were started by something as seemingly harmless as a candle. While candles can bring warmth and ambiance to a space, they are also an open flame—and with that comes risk.

To help you protect your home and loved ones, we encourage you to follow these candle safety guidelines carefully:

Before Lighting

  • Trim the Wick
    Always trim the wick to ¼ inch before lighting. A longer wick can cause uneven burning, dripping, or flaring. Discard any wick trimmings and match debris to prevent them from igniting in the wax pool.

  • Avoid Drafts
    Keep candles away from vents, fans, or open windows. Air movement can cause the flame to flicker or flare, which increases the risk of an unintended fire.

  • Use a Safe Surface
    Place candles on a heat-resistant and fire-proof surface. Avoid wooden tables, fabric tablecloths, or anything that could catch fire if the candle tips or wax spills.

candle safetyWhile Lit

  • Never Leave Unattended
    Always stay within sight of a burning candle. Never leave a room or go to sleep with a candle still burning.

  • Limit Burn Time
    Do not burn candles for more than four hours at a time. Prolonged use can cause the container to overheat or crack.

  • Keep Away from Flammable Items
    Ensure candles are not near curtains, bedding, paper, or any material that could catch fire. A small flame can spread quickly in the right (or wrong) conditions.

  • Protect Children and Pets
    Place candles out of reach of children and pets. An accidental nudge or curious paw can easily tip a candle over, leading to burns or worse.

After Use

  • Never Use Water to Extinguish
    Pouring water on hot wax can cause splattering or even an explosion in glass containers. Use a snuffer or gently blow it out instead.

  • Let Wax Harden
    Allow wax to fully cool and harden before attempting to move, relight, or touch the candle. This helps prevent spills and accidental burns.

A Final Word

Preventing a fire or explosion is the best way to prevent an injury. Something as small as a candle can have devastating consequences if not used with care. By following these simple safety tips, you can enjoy the comfort candles bring while protecting what matters most.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a fire-related incident, our experienced legal team is here to help. Contact us to learn more about your rights and options.