Candle Safety Week advice

Did you know this is Candle Safety Week? Me neither, but here’s some advice that’s particularly relevant at this time of the year … 

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) is making an appeal to the public to stay safe this Candle Safety Week.

Candles pose a real threat to life if misused. Follow our top tips to make sure you, your family and home stay safe from fire:

• Make sure that when in use, candles are secured in a proper holder and away from materials that may catch fire – like curtains, furniture,  Christmas trees, decorations or toys.

• Children and pets should not be left alone with lit candles.

• Put candles out when you leave the room, and make sure they’re put out completely at night.  In particular, never leave a burning candle in a bedroom.

• Trim the wick to ¼ inch each time before burning. 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.

• Do not burn several candles close together as this might cause flaring (mainly with tea-lights).

• Always make sure tea-lights are placed in a proper holder.  The foil container that tea lights are contained in can get very hot. They can melt through plastic, such as a bath, and have the potential to start a house fire.

• Use a snuffer or a spoon to put out candles.  It’s safer than blowing them out when embers can fly.