What should I know about candle safety?

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Candles are safe when burned properly, responsibly and according to manufacturer directions. It is important to remember that a burning candle is an open flame, and thus a potential fire hazard if not monitored carefully.

When burning candles, consumers should follow these basic safety rules:

• Keep lighted candles within your sight. Never leave a burning candle unattended.
• Never burn a candle on or near anything that can catch fire.
• Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.
• Trim wicks to ¼ inch prior to each use.
• Keep candles away from drafts and vents.
• Always use an appropriate candleholder placed on a stable, heat-resistant surface.
• Read and follow all manufacturer instructions carefully. 

Federal law requires that consumer commodities, like candles, be labeled with the manufacturer's name and location, as well as basic product weight and measurement information.

In addition, candle industry standards call for cautionary labels on candles or their packaging to inform consumers of the basic rules of fire-safety. Always read and follow a candle's cautionary label and burning instructions before using a candle. 

For more information on candle safety visit the following links:

National Candle Association: http://www.candles.org/nca_overview.html

Health Canada: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hl-vs/iyh-vsv/prod/candle-bougie-eng.php

National Fire Protection Association: http://bit.ly/qDo9yi

Home Safety Council: http://www.homesafetycouncil.org/safetyguide/sg_candle_w001.asp

American Red Cross (pdf): http://rdcrss.org/rdQnGw

US Consumer Product Safety Commission: http://www.cpsc.gov/volstd/candles/candles.html

Allison B. Kontur

www.BathBodySupply.com