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How to Burn a Candle Safely

Before lighting

• Trim the wick to 1/4 inch each time before burning. Long or crooked wicks can cause uneven burning, dripping or flaring.
• Always use a candleholder specifically designed for candle use. It should be heat resistant, sturdy, and large enough to contain any drips or melted wax.
• Burn candles in a well-ventilated room.
• Place the candleholder on a stable, heat-resistant surface.
• Keep the wax pool clear of wick trimmings, matches and debris at all times.
• Avoid drafts, vents or air currents. This will help prevent rapid or uneven burning, sooting, and excessive dripping.
• Follow the manufacturer's recommendations on burn time and proper use.

While burning

• Never touch or move a burning candle. Never move a votive or container candle when the wax is liquefied.
• Don't burn a candle all the way down. For a margin of safety, discontinue burning a candle when 2 inches of wax remains (1/2 inch if in a container).
• Extinguish a candle if the flame becomes too high or flickers repeatedly. Let the candle cool, trim the wick, and check for unwanted drafts before re-lighting.
• Always keep the candle within your sight. If you are going to leave the room, be sure to first blow out all candles.

When extinguishing

• Use a candle snuffer to extinguish a candle. It's the safest way to prevent hot wax from splattering.
• Never use water to extinguish a candle. Water can cause the hot wax to splatter and might break a glass container.
• Make sure the candle is completely out and the wick ember is no longer glowing before leaving the room.
• >Don't touch or move the candle until it has completely cooled.

The National Candle Association (NCA)