Candles
Candles are a popular way to make our homes more cosy in the winter, but it’s important to remember that candles are an open flame which can cause devastation if left unattended.
Here are a few simple precautions you should take when using candles or tea lights in the home:
- Consider swapping wax candles for LED candles, they are much safer and give the same warm glow
- Make sure candles are secured in a proper holder and are away from flammable materials, such as curtains
- Never leave children alone with lit candles
- Put candles out when you leave the room, and make sure they’re put out completely before you go to bed
- Keep the wax pool clear of wick trimmings, matches and debris
- Burn candles in a well-ventilated room, but avoid drafts, vents or air currents which can cause rapid or uneven burning, sooting, and excessive dripping
- Keep the wick short and trim before burning where necessary. Long or crooked wicks can cause uneven burning, dripping or flaring
- Don’t move candles once they are lit
- Follow the manufacturer's recommendations on burn time and proper use
- Don't burn several candles close together as this can cause flaring
Wax melts
There are a few simple safety tips to follow when using wax melts:
- Always use a wax melter designed for wax melts. Do not use a candle warmer or a hot plate to melt wax melts. These devices can get too hot and cause the wax to catch fire.
- Choose a high-quality wax melt. A good-quality wax melt will be made from a safe and non-toxic material. Home-made wax melts use different ingredients which have a lower ignition temperature, which may cause it to catch alight.
- Never leave an electric wax melter unattended. If you must leave the room, turn off the wax melter or unplug it.
- Keep wax melts out of reach of children and pets.
- Do not place wax melts near anything that can catch fire. This includes curtains, furniture, and bedding.
- Do not melt wax melts for more than 4 hours at a time. This can cause the wax to overheat and catch fire.
- Never heat medical ointments such as VapoRub which is highly flammable.
