Homeowners warned to avoid this cheap Valentine's Day gift which could be dangerous
The consequences of a candle fire can be severe 🕯
- Candles are a popular Valentine’s Day present.
- However, cheap candles and relaxed habits can cause dangerous complications.
- Jonny Smith, fire safety specialist at fire risk assessment providers Crusader Fire, explains how to use candles safely this Valentine’s Day.
Scented candles are a popular gift on Valentine’s Day, with millions of people lighting them at home to set a romantic mood. But according to a leading fire safety specialist, cheap candles and relaxed safety habits can have serious consequences.
Jonny Smith, fire safety specialist at fire risk assessment providers Crusader Fire, says Valentine’s Day consistently sees an increase in candle-related fires, as people underestimate how quickly things can go wrong.
Smith said: “Candles are often seen as harmless because they’re small and familiar. But once they’re lit, you’re dealing with an open flame, and that brings real risk. Most incidents don’t start dramatically. They start with a candle left too close to soft furnishings, or burning longer than intended.”
The consequences of a candle fire can be dangerous, with even a small fire causing smoke damage. This is how to burn candles safely this Valentine’s Day and what candles to avoid.
Why are candles dangerous?
Valentine’s Day creates the perfect storm of risk factors for a candle fire, as candles are often placed on dining tables, or around decorations, flowers, cards or fabrics. Combine that with alcohol, and people are more likely to fall asleep, leaving candles lit.
The quality of the candle also makes a difference, with Smith urging people to avoid using cheaper candles, as they are proven to be more likely to burn unevenly, tip over, or overheat containers.
Smith said: “Poor quality wax, badly centred wicks, or thin glass containers all increase the chance of a candle behaving unpredictably. Spending a few pounds more on a well-made candle can significantly reduce that risk.”
He also warns against placing candles in bedrooms, as bedrooms have a high concentration of combustible materials, explaining: “If a candle is knocked over or left unattended while someone falls asleep, the consequences can be catastrophic.”
How to use candles safely this Valentine’s Day?
Most candle fires are entirely preventable with simple safety precautions. Smith recommends that you keep candles away from curtains, cards and soft furnishings. You should always place them on a stable, heat-resistant surface, never leave them burning unattended and blow them out if you’re feeling tired.
He also advises checking smoke alarms are working before lighting, and keeping candles well out of reach of pets and children.
Smith said: “A candle should be something that adds to the evening, not something that creates a financial headache or worse. A little awareness goes a long way, and it doesn’t cost a penny.”
You can find out more information about fire safety and keeping your household safe at the Fire Safety Advice Centre.