Care with Candles

Candles are becoming an increasingly popular form of lighting for many reasons including their decorative effect.

However central heating and electric lights mean that many of us have forgotten the danger that candles pose.

REMEMBER - CANDLES ARE A NAKED FLAME

Tower Hamlets Trading Standards department and the local Fire Brigade are warning residents to be especially careful and to follow the candle code:-



  • Read any instructions that come with the candle and follow them carefully.
    The manufacturer may be aware of special conditions that are not obvious.

  • Place candles in a level, non-flammable, heat-proof holder somewhere where they cannot fall over,
    away from flammable materials such as curtains and Christmas decorations, and out of draughts and, especially, not under shelves.

  • Keep candles away from children and pets.
    Children are often fascinated by flames and unaware of the dangers. Pets are just plain clumsy!

  • Do not place tea-lights directly on the TV or any other plastic or wooden surface.
    They can get very hot and melt the surface or cause a fire.

  • Do not put candles in a position such that someone may lean or reach over them.
    Hair and many forms of clothing can catch fire very easily.

  • Do not allow the flame to come into direct contact with glass containers.
    This can crack the glass and result in the candle falling.

  • Do not leave a burning candle unattended or in a child's bedroom.
    Don't go to sleep with a candle burning.

  • Do not move a candle when it is burning.
    You might drop it or catch clothing on fire.

  • Make sure that they are properly put out.
    Use a snuffer or a spoon, rather than blowing them out. Double check that they are out.

  • Keep candles 8 to 10 cm (3-4 inches) apart.
    The heat from one candle can soften another enough to cause it to fall.

  • Keep votive or scented candles in glass or metal containers.
    These turn to liquid to release their scent.

  • Do not touch any container until your are sure it is cold.
    Hot metal or glass containers can cause severe burns.

  • Fit a smoke detector.
    Good general advice!

    Manufacturers also recommend the following

    Keep the wax pool free of wick trimmings, matches and debris.
    Stop using the candle when 5cm (2") are left - 1cm (1/2") for one in a container
    Do not extinguish a candle with water
    Do not use a candle as a light when you look for things in a cupboard or closet.
    Trim wicks to 5mm (1/4") before use.
    Make sure the room is well-ventilated but not draughty.
    In an emergency, torches and other battery powered lights are safer than candles.