Dangers of Burning Candles

dangers of burning candlesPromoting ambiance, romance, or perhaps a little bit in-between, candles are common fixtures in homes and apartments. Their fragrant scents are sought after by many, but they also pose a big fire risk if you aren’t vigilant.

According to the National Fire Prevention Association, approximately 24 calls per day to US fire departments are due to the mishandling of burning candles. Over the course of a year, over 80 deaths, 800 injuries, and $295 million in property damage has been reported.

While damage caused by fire should be covered under your insurance policy, it’s ideal to take caution before you have to file a claim.

Candle Safety Tips

  • Avoid using candles in bedrooms where people may fall to sleep.
  • Keep candles at least 1 foot away from anything that may burn, such as drapes, clothing and bed sheets
  • Use sturdy candle holders that won’t bend or tip easily
  • Keep loose clothing and long hair away from flames
  • Never burn a candle all the way down to the bottom. Always leave a stub the size of your thumb.
  • Never rely on burning candles during power outages. Have a flashlight at the ready!

Flame vs Flameless Candles

A popular alternative to burning candles is flameless candles. Powered by an LED and a battery, flameless candles provide a realistic flickering effect without the risk. Many can last for 100 hours on a single battery. They can easily be found on big box sites like Amazon.

Soot from Burning Candles

Soot is a carbon residue produced by burning candles. It travels through the air and can seriously stain walls, carpet, and personal property to the point where it can be impossible to clean. Homeowners insurance may or may not cover damage resulting from soot. While one candle probably won’t do much harm, lighting candles every night creates a recipe for disaster. A homeowner can have thousands of dollars in damage and the policy may not cover it.

So, the next time you think about lighting a candle, think about some of the consequences. Should you ever need to file a homeowner’s insurance claim, you can call or text H&K Insurance at 617-612-6500.