However, real flame candles can also become a factor in a chain of events that can result in unnecessary injury and even death. Candles in U.S. homes caused an estimated 18,000 reported fires, 190 deaths, 1,450 injuries, and $265 million in estimated property damage. Reported home candle fires rose 15% from 2000 to 2001, the latest year for which data is available. These fires statistics started climbing in 1991. Since 1995, every year has been a new high. The 18,000 reported in 2001 is more than three times the 5,500 reported in 1990. The number of fire deaths caused by candle fires also reached a new high in 2001. Reported home fires have been decreasing while home candle fires have increased. Consequently, the share of home fires started by candles has also been growing. In 2001, candles caused 5% of reported home fires. Only 1% of home candle fires were caused by candles in the early 1980s.

These are startling statistics. Here at Flame Free Candles we encourage those who enjoy using candles to consider using our Flameless Candles™ for not only their safety benefits but for their health benefits as well. For those of you who still use regular flame candles, we have put some useful Candle Safety Information together for using these types of candles.

Frequently Asked Questions and Candle Care Tips:

How are Candles Made?
While modern candle-making processes vary, most candles are made through the timeless process of placing a cotton wick into wax which is then molded, dipped, extruded, pressed, rolled, drawn or filled into a desired shape and size.

What is the Best Way to Store Candles?
Candles should be stored in a cool, dark, dry place and, for tapers, in a flat position to prevent warping. When stored properly, candles can be enjoyed for years and play an important role in traditions.

Are Candles Safe to Use?
Candles are safe when burned properly and responsibly, and according to manufacturers’ directions. When burning candles, consumers should always follow these simple, common sense steps:

• Never leave a burning candle unattended
  
• Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets
  
• Trim wicks prior to each use and keep trimmed
  
• Keep candles away from vents, combustible materials, and flammable objects
  
• Extinguish a candle that smokes (check instructions before re-lighting)
  
• Extinguish candle flame when ½" of wax remains in a container
  
• Extinguish candle flames when it gets within 2 inches of their holders or decorations.
  
• When blowing out a candle, hold your finger in front of the flame and blow at it. The air will flow around the finger and extinguish the candle from both sides. This will prevent hot wax from splattering.
  
• Candles should always be burned in proper candle-holders or bases.
  
• Use only candle holders that have been manufactured for use with candles
  
• Keep wicks trimmed to one half inch. Long, crooked wicks cause uneven burning and dripping.
  
• Keep votive wicks centered and trimmed to 1/4" while burning to prevent breaking the glass.
  
• If a wick becomes too short to light, carve away enough wax to expose the fresh wick, then trim 1/4" off the top of the candle and burn the candle to reform its appearance (tapers are the exception to this rule.)
  
• Keep matches and other debris out of the candle
  
• Avoid putting candles in drafts to prevent rapid and uneven burning and excessive dripping.
  
• Never put candles in a window or directly expose to bright outdoor light or indoor spotlights.
  
• Candles will fade if left in the light for an extended period of time.
  
• Do not move a glass container when the wax is liquid
  
• Remove wax from holders by running very hot water over them.
  
• Clean solid candles with a piece of nylon or use a touch of salad oil on a soft cloth.
  
• To remove wax from washable fabrics, scrape off excess wax and run boiling water through the material.

What are the Typical Ingredients in a Candle?
A candle consists primarily of wax and a wick. Many candles also contain dyes or pigments for color and fragrances for scent as well as other minor ingredients.

What is Soot?
Soot is a natural by-product of incomplete combustion and is comprised primarily of carbon particles. Soot can be caused by fireplaces, stoves, furnaces or even from cooking. If candle wicks are kept trimmed and there is proper ventilation with no drafts, there should be no incomplete combustion and, therefore, no sooting from candles. In any house, there are literally millions of airborne particles that can adhere to surfaces. These particles include a wide variety of naturally-occurring substances such as dirt, dust and pollen. If windows are open, particles may come from car or truck exhaust, barbecues and burning leaves. Due to natural airflow, these particles tend to adhere to ceilings, walls and window treatments. Because of static electricity, they also tend to collect on or near electrical appliances, TV or computer screens.

Do Scented Candles Produce more Soot or Smoke than Non-Scented Candles?
Not necessarily. While unscented wax may tend to burn more efficiently in general, it is the size of the wick and flame that makes the most difference, not the fragrance. Candles produced using appropriate raw materials should burn cleanly if used properly.

Courtesy of The National Candle Association
and NFPA Fire Analysis and Research Division