Candle Safety


Candle safety

Candles are one of the top five causes of fire in the home. To reduce your risk of fire, consider using battery operated candles, which give the same light effect without the risk from flames.  

Photograph of LED candle lit in a bowl

Follow our advice below to stay safe when burning candles and using oil burners.

Choose the right environment

  • Keep lit candles and oil burners away from draughts, curtains, clothes, paper and other flammable materials. The naked flame could easily cause something to catch fire.
  • Never use outdoor candles indoors – they could pose a fire or carbon monoxide (CO) risk.

Use proper tools

  • Use sturdy candle holders made of non-flammable materials. Make sure the candle is firmly fixed into the holder and cannot fall over.
  • Use a holder designed specifically for tea-lights.
  • Place lit candles and oil burners on a flat, heat-resistant surface such as a ceramic tile or a metal plate, to prevent the risk of fire.

Use candles with care

  • Keep candles and oil burners out of the reach of children and pets.
  • Always leave at least 10cm (four inches) between two lit candles, this prevents the flame from flaring.
  • Never leave burning candles unattended, especially around children or pets.
  • Do not place lit candles and oil burners under shelves or other surfaces.
  • Never lean over a lit candle, you could set your hair or clothes on fire.
  • Do not move lit candles or oil burners, you increase the risk of fire or injury.
  • Do not burn candles all the way down to the bottom, the heat from the flame can cause the holder to crack or break.
  • Do not go near naked flames if you are using emollient products.
  • Never allow an oil burner to boil dry, it could break – or catch fire.
  • Never light candles if you feel sleepy or under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication. You are more likely to have a candle fire and less likely to be able to respond safely.
  • Extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to sleep. Double check that candles are completely out and not still smouldering.
  • Never heat your home using candles (for help and support if you are affected by the cost-of-living rise, visit the Helping Hand website).

Fit smoke alarms 

  • Have working smoke alarms on each level of your home and test them at least monthly.
  • Consider an extra smoke alarm in all rooms where you burn candles.

Useful links

Candles and Ceremonial Burning Practices Carbon Monoxide Smoke and Heat Alarms Ceremonial Burning Practices