Candle safety during Autumn

It's that time of year when the curtains close early, the blankets are out, and you might think about lighting a candle for that extra warm and cosy feeling.

It's also the time of year many of us light candles, oil burners, or incense sticks to celebrate festivals like Diwali. 

Although this can look beautiful it does come at a risk to your home, and to your neighbours. Sadly, we've already soon some damage being caused to communal corridors with candles and incense sticks burning on people's doorsteps.

We recommend using battery-powered candles instead of candles with real flames. You get the same warm and cosy feeling, but without the risk.

If you do decide to use real candles,  follow our safety advice to keep yourself and others safe.

Do

• make sure that candles are placed in a fire-resistant candle holder
• keep candles away from furniture and curtains
• leave at least 10cm between burning candles and tea lights
• put out candles before leaving the room and before you go to bed
• use a snuffer or spoon to put out candles
• keep candles, matches and lighters away from children and pets.

Don't

• put them under shelves or in enclosed spaces
• ever leave a burning candle unattended
• blow out candles, it can send sparks and hot wax flying. Use a snuffer instead
• use candles or burners outside your home. This includes communal corridors
• move a candle while it’s lit