In Stamford, Health and Social Services Director Dr. Johnnie Lee and Fire Chief Robert McGrath are determined to change those statistics with a pubic information campaign to “enlighten” area residents with some sound safety advice. “If you leave an open flame unattended, you’re asking for trouble,” said Stamford Health Director, Dr. Johnnie Lee. He continued: “Even the melted wax of a candle can be dangerous, because it can carry a burning wick and set fire to anything close by.” Lee also noted: “Despite the growth in the industry, there are not currently safety standards for candles. Consumers assume that their candleholders are safe, and don’t expect them to break or catch fire. But in fact, there are no standards for glass candle containers, and although some holders are made of tempered glass that can withstand high temperatures, others are not.” According to Stamford Fire Chief, Robert McGrath “most fires start because no one is paying attention.” McGrath continued: “a recent NFPA study revealed 36 percent of home candle fires started when the candle was unattended, abandoned or inadequately controlled, 18 percent of home candle fires occurred because the candle was too close to combustible materials, and 9 percent of home candle fires were started by children playing with the candles. He also stated: “although no area of the home is without risk, almost half of all candle fires start in the bedroom.” The Stamford Health and Fire Departments recommends the following precautions to avoid candle fires: |
- Burn candles inside a one-foot circle of safety, free of anything that can burn.
- Use candles only with constant adult supervision.
- Extinguish all candles when leaving a room or going to sleep.
- Keep candles well away from items that can catch fire, such as Christmas trees, flammable decorations, clothing, books, paper, curtains, etc.
- Make sure candles are placed on a secure piece of furniture, in sturdy holders that will not tip over. Make sure candleholders are non-combustible and big enough to collect dripping wax.
- Do not place lit candles in windows, where blinds or curtains can close over them.
- Keep wicks trimmed to ¼ inch, and extinguish candles when they burn down to within two inches of the holder.
- Keep candles and all open flames away from flammable liquids.
- Do not use candles in places where they can be knocked over by children or pets.
- In addition to the danger of candle fires, many candles with metal wicks contain significant amounts of lead and can pose a serious heath risk. As a general precaution, avoid candles with metal wicks unless you are sure they are lead free.
|