Be Candle-Wise and Fire-Safe During the Holiday Season: Tips from the National Candle Association

Dec. 4, 2012 - PRLog -- Candles are among the loveliest and most popular of holiday traditions, but they’re also one of the most common causes of holiday fires.

The National Candle Association (http://www.candles.org/) is urging consumers to pay special attention to the use of candles during the holiday season with this series of safety tips:

Keep combustible decorations and other items away from candles.  Avoid using paper table decorations or fabric candle rings with candle centerpieces.  Be sure decorative greenery is well hydrated and away from lighted candles.

Never leave a burning candle unattended.  This is the number one candle-safety rule for any time of year, but often overlooked in the confusion of holiday celebrations.

Be sure to place lighted candles out of the reach of children and pets.  Be sure decorations are clear of traffic patterns and the reach of tail-wagging pets.

Always place candles in sturdy, heat-resistant candle holders designed specifically for candle use.  Never use candles on a Christmas tree or as window decorations.

Take special care to keep gift-wrapped items away from candles.  Wrapping paper, ribbons, yarn, gift boxes and tags are very pretty but very flammable, and should never be placed or unwrapped near lit candles.

Follow the manufacturer’s burning instructions:  Trim wicks to ¼ inch each time before burning.  Keep the wax pool free of wick trimmings, matches and other debris, and never burn a candle longer than the manufacturer recommends.

With a little extra attention to fire safety when planning and decorating for the holidays, you can enjoy a safe holiday season as well as the special ambiance of candles and candlelight

For more information about candle safety and decorating with candles for the holidays, visit the National Candle Association’s website at www.candles.org.