(Washington State) Candles can create a warm ambiance and provide light, but they also pose a significant fire risk, causing numerous residential fires and fire-related deaths each year. While lit candles are commonly used in religious ceremonies, both at home and in places of worship, they should always be handled with caution. The Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO) reminds everyone that candles are an open flame and can easily ignite any nearby flammable or combustible materials.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that nationwide, 32% of home decoration fires are caused by candles. In 2023, Washington State experienced 1,763 fire incidents caused by open flames, resulting in over 57 million in damage.
The SFMO urges everyone to follow these essential candle safety tips:
- Always blow out candles before leaving a room or going to bed.
- Place candles in sturdy holders and avoid passing lit candles from person to person.
- Keep lit candles away from windows where blinds or curtains could catch fire.
- Keep candles at least one foot away from anything that can burn.
- Never use candles in homes that use medical oxygen.
- Never leave children alone in a room with a burning candle, and store matches and lighters out of their reach. • When used for religious ceremonies, ensure burning candles on or near tables, altars, or shrines are always attended by an adult. If a candle must burn for an extended period, place it in a glass container and position it in a sink, metal tray, or deep basin of water.
- Never allow a candle to burn all the way down—extinguish it before it gets too close to the holder or container. • Consider using battery-powered flameless candles for a safe alternative that still provides the ambiance of a real candle.
For more information, contact the State Fire Marshal’s Office at www.wsp.wa.gov/state-fire-marshals-office or at (360) 596-3904.