How to Safely Burn a Candle
Prior to Lighting:
Always cut the wick to 14 inches before lighting. A wick trimmer, nail clippers, or scissors can be used. Uneven burning, dripping, or flaring can be caused by wicks that are too long or crooked.
Always keep the wax pool free of wick trimmings, matches, and debris.
Always use a candleholder built exclusively for candles. It should be heat-resistant, strong, and big enough to catch any drips or melted wax.
In a Well-Ventilated Space, Light Candles:
Avoid drafts, vents, or air currents when burning candles in a well-ventilated space. This will assist prevent excessive dripping, sooting, and quick or uneven burning.
Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for burn time and usage. Candles should not burn for more than four hours and should be allowed to cool for at least two hours before relighting.
Use long matches or a long-reach lighter to light a candle. Keep loose fitting clothes and hair away from the flame.
While on Fire; While Burning:
Candles should be kept out of reach of youngsters and dogs. Place lighting candles away from youngsters, pets, or anybody else who might knock them over.
When a candle is burning or the wax is liquefied, never touch or move it.
Don't extinguish a candle completely. To be safe, stop burning a candle when 1/2 inch or 2 inches remains in the container if using a pillar candle.
Distance between burning candles should be at least three inches. This is to prevent them from melting each other or creating their own drafts, which would cause the candles to burn unevenly.
If the flame rises too high or flickers frequently, extinguish the candle. Before re-lighting, let the candle cool, trim the wick, and check for drafts.
Never use a candle as a nightlight or when you're sleeping.
When using candles during a power outage, exercise extreme caution. During a power outage, flashlights and other battery-powered lights are safer sources of light. Never use a candle to search for items in a closet during a power outage or to fuel equipment like a lantern or kerosene heater.
When Putting Out a Candle:
To put out a candle, use a candle snuffer. It's the safest approach to avoid splattering hot wax.
Never put out a candle with water. Water can produce splattering of hot wax and break a glass container.
Before leaving the room, be sure the candle is fully out and the wick ember is no longer glowing.
Wait until the candle has totally cooled before touching or moving it.
To remove wax drippings from a glass holder, never use a knife or a sharp item. After repeated usage, it may scrape, weaken, or break the glass.
