How to use candles safely.

Though they create a warm glow, candles need handling with care. 

Did you know that flameless LED candles are a much safer alternative to real candles or tea lights?

Benefits of flameless candles

Sometimes called LED, battery-operated, or electric candles - flameless candles have a number of advantages:

• You can leave them unattended
• You don't have to worry about pets or children knocking them over
• If you doze off while a flameless candle is on, it's not a problem
• You can use them outdoors
• You can buy flickering, rechargeable, coloured and waterproof versions

Don't want to switch? If you want to continue to use wax candles, take a look at how you can use them safely...

How to use candles and incense safely 

• Never leave candles, incense sticks and oil burners unattended - this includes 'Diya lamps'' often used for worship and religious festivals.
• Make sure you put them out when you leave the room and especially before bed.
• Keep them in heat-resistant holders placed on a stable surface.
• Don't put them close to anything that can catch fire, such as curtains, papers, furniture, and clothes.
• To avoid accidents keep candles and all naked flames (including matches and lighters) out of the reach of children and pets.
• Tea lights get very hot and without proper holders can melt through plastic surfaces like a TV or bath.

Take extra care when you're celebrating 

Diwali, Bonfire Night, Halloween, Hanukkah and Christmas can see us light candles, dress up, and display lots of decorations – increasing the risk of fire. Make sure all your decorations are kept away from naked flames.

What to do if clothes catch fire?

If there's an accident with a candle and your clothes catch fire, don’t run around. Try to remember ‘stop, drop, roll' – which means: 

1. Stop – don’t run around, you’ll make the flames worse.
2. Drop – lie down on the ground at once.
3. Roll – it makes it harder for the flames to spread.