From 2009-2013, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated nine thousand three-hundred home structure fires that were started by candles. These fires caused eighty-six deaths, eight-hundred and twenty-seven injuries, and three-hundred and seventy-four million dollars in direct property damage. Here is everything you need to know about candle fire prevention!

Candle Fires by the Numbers

• Candles caused three percent of reported home fires, three percent of home fire deaths, six percent of home fire injuries, and five percent of the direct property damage in home fires.
• Roughly one-third (thirty-six percent) of home candle fires started in bedrooms. These fires caused thirty-two percent of the associated deaths and forty-seven percent of the associated injuries.
• Falling asleep was a factor in eleven percent of the home candle fires and thirty percent of the associated deaths.
• On average, twenty-five home candle fires were reported per day.
• More than half (fifty-eight percent) of home candle fires occurred when some form of combustible material was left or came too close to the candle.
• December is the peak time of year for home candle fires. In December, eleven percent of home candle fires began with decorations compared to four percent the rest of the year.
  

Candle Safety Tips

• Blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed. Avoid the use of candles in the bedroom and other areas where people may fall asleep.
• Keep candles at least twelve inches away from anything that can burn.
• Use candle holders that are sturdy, and won’t tip over easily.
• Put candle holders on a sturdy, uncluttered surface.
• Light candles carefully. Keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame.
• Don’t burn a candle all the way down — put it out before it gets too close to the holder or container.
• Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home.
• Have flashlights and battery-powered lighting ready to use during a power outage. Never use candles.