SFD Offers Candle Safety Tips; Most Candle Fires Occur on Christmas & New Year's

Brian Schaeffer, Assistant Chief, 509.625.7002

Monday, December 22, 2014 at 9:54 a.m.

The Spokane Fire Department is offering tips to prevent candle fires this holiday season. Home fires related to candles cause an average of 115 civilian deaths, 903 civilian fire injuries, and $418 million in direct property damage each year. Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day top the list of days with the most reported home candle fires. Remember these important safety tips to prevent fire and fire injury.

While many people enjoy the addition of candles to their holiday atmosphere, it’s important to be cautious as candles can act as a dangerous fire hazard when not used safely.

The Spokane Fire Department encourages the use of battery operated candles rather than open flame candles. If you do decorate with open flame candles, keep the following tips in mind:

  • Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn
  • Never leave a candle burning in a room without a responsible adult
  • Make sure candles are always in sturdy containers
  • Never light candles when you are drowsy

According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), there were an average of 29 home candle fires reported per day between 2007 and 2011. Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day top the list of days with the most reported home candle fires.

Make holiday safety a tradition and exercise caution when using open flame candles. From all of us at the Spokane Fire Department, have a safe and happy holiday season!

For more holiday safety information, visit SpokaneFire.org.