About Those Romantic Valentine's Day Candles ...
From 2009 to 2013, there were 9,300 reported home structure fires in the United States started by candles, an average of about 25 reported fires per day, according to an NFPA report.
Just in time for Valentine's Day 2016, the National Fire Protection Association has posted a reminder about the potential dangers involved in lighted candles. Between 2009 and 2013, there were 9,300 reported home structure fires in the United States started by candles, an average of about 25 fires reported per day that caused 86 deaths, 827 injuries, and $374 million in direct property damage, according to NFPA.
One-third of these fires started in bedrooms, and falling asleep played a role in 11 percent of the reported home candle fires, according to the report.
NFPA's candle safety suggestions include these:
- Blow out candles before leaving the room or going to bed
- Avoid the use of candles in the bedroom
- Use candle holders that are sturdy and won't tip over easily
- Use flameless candles
- Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything flammable
The report says more than half of home fires caused by candles occurred when combustible material was left or came too close to the candle.