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Candles, Incense and Oil Burners

- Safety Article -

Candles, Incense and Oil Burners

Two accidental dwelling fires are started by candles every day.

Every day two accidental dwelling fires are started by candles. It is important to remember that a candle is not just a decorative feature. Left unattended, an open flame scenting your home could leave a trail of devastation.

What TO Do

  • Always place candles, incense or oil burners in heat-resistant holders
  • Be aware that tea lights get very hot and without proper holders can melt through plastic surfaces like the edge of a bath
  • Position candles, incense or oil burners away from flammable objects such as curtains, drapes or bedding
  • Position candles, incense or oil burners on a stable, heat resistant surface out of the reach of pets and children. This reduces the risk of them being knocked over
  • Trim candle wicks to half a centimetre. Longer wicks can cause uneven burning, dripping or flaring
  • Keep the wax pool of candles clear of wick trimmings, matches and debris
  • Burn candles, incense or oil burners in a well-ventilated room, out of draughts. This will help prevent rapid or uneven burning
  • Extinguish lit candles, incense or oil burners when you leave the room
  • Consider switching to using flameless candles such as LED, battery operated or electric candles which have a number of advantages such as being able to leave them unattended. You also do not have to worry about pets or children knocking them over
  • Ensure you have working smoke alarms on each level of your home and test them every month
  • Consider requesting a Home Fire Safety Visit to review fire precautions within your home and receive additional advice and guidance

What NOT To Do

  • Do not group candles close together to burn as this may cause the wax of one candle to soften due to the heat of another
  • Always leave 10 centimetres between them
  • Do not burn candles, incense or oil burners near curtains or drapes that could be blown into the flame
  • Do not move lit candles, incense or oil burners
  • Do not leave lit candles, incense or oil burners unattended. Always extinguish them when leaving the room
  • Do not light candles, incense or oil burners when tiredness, alcohol or medication could increase the risk of you falling asleep

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