Candles and Fire Danger

We were talking in the office a few days ago about decorating for Christmas. A co-worker likes to burn candles and has been using a votive candle inside a larger candle to make her large candle last longer. We were visiting about how easy it can be to become distracted and forget that there is a live flame inside the house. We discussed safer options like battery-operated candles and that some of the newer ones have timers built in. That got me thinking about fire safety during the holidays. I discovered some scary statistics.

 

Facts about home holiday fires

  • One of every four home Christmas tree fires is caused by electrical problems.
  • Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious. On average, one of every 32 reported home Christmas tree fires results in a death compared to an average of one death per 143 total reported home fires.
  • A heat source too close to the tree causes one in every four Christmas tree fires.
  • The top three days for home candle fires are Christmas, New Year’s Day, and Christmas Eve.
  • Candles start two out of five home decoration structure fires.
  • This information is from the FEMA website.

Fires start so very fast and our decorations are usually flammable. In less than 30 seconds, a fire can go from a small flame to totally out of control. If the fire starts when you are sleeping, you really will not have any time to spare. Forget about grabbing valuables and exit the home. Escape should be the only thing on your mind.

It seems like your house should be well lit from flames but the smoke will be very dark and you may be disoriented even if you are positive that you know the layout of your home well. Heat from a fire, as well as smoke and toxic gases can all kill you.

Be prepared and be safe. Plan exit routes and meeting places outside the home. Emphasize to family members that getting out of the home safely is the number one priority. Belongings can be replaced, family members cannot!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liz Meimann

I received both my undergraduate and graduate degrees in Food Science at Iowa State University. I love to quilt, sew, cook, and bake. I spent many years gardening, canning, and preserving food for my family when my children were at home.

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