Candle Safety Published Sept. 6, 2016 By Public Education Division National Fire Protection Association GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Candles may be pretty to look at but they are a cause of home fires and home fire deaths. Remember, a candle is an open flame, which means that it can easily ignite anything that can burn. ‘Candle with care’ • Blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed. Avoid the use of candles in the bedroom and other areas where people may fall asleep. • Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn. If you do burn candles, make sure that you... • Use candle holders that are sturdy and won’t tip over easily. • Put candle holders on a sturdy, uncluttered surface. • Light candles carefully. Keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame. • Don’t burn a candle all the way down, put it out before it gets too close to the holder or container. • Never use candle’s if medical oxygen is used in the home. • Have flashlights and battery-powered lighting ready to use during a power outage. Never use candles. Candles and kids • Think about using flameless candles in your home. They look and smell like real candles. Never leave a child alone in a room with a burning candle. Keep matches and lighters up high and out of children’s reach, in a locked cabinet. Facts • December is the peak time of year for home candle fires. • Roughly one-third of home candle fires start in the bedroom. • More than half of all candle fires start when things that can burn are too close to the candle. For more information, visit www.nfpa.org/education.com.