At CPSS, your safety is always our priority. Here’s how to enjoy the ambiance of candles without putting your home or loved ones at risk this holiday season.
1. Keep Candles Away from Decorations
Holiday décor is often highly flammable.
Be sure to keep candles away from:
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Christmas trees (real or artificial)
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Garlands
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Wrapping paper
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Ribbons and bows
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Tablecloths and linens
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Curtains
Maintain at least 12 inches of clearance around any lit candle.
2. Never Leave a Candle Unattended
It only takes seconds for a flame to cause a fire.
Always extinguish candles when:
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Leaving a room
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Going to bed
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Answering the door
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Hosting young children or pets nearby
If you’re distracted or hosting guests, consider using flameless LED candles for added peace of mind.
3. Place Candles on Stable, Heat-Resistant Surfaces
A candle that tips, melts, or overheats can become a serious hazard.
Make sure your candles are:
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On flat, sturdy surfaces
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Away from edges where they can be knocked over
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In heat-resistant holders that properly contain wax
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Positioned far from foot traffic and wagging tails
Glass containers can shatter if overheated — always follow manufacturer guidelines.
4. Trim the Wick Before Lighting
A long wick produces a larger flame and more risk.
Before lighting:
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Trim the wick to ¼ inch
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Remove any debris in the wax pool
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Keep candles free of dust and loose material
A well-maintained wick burns cleaner, safer, and longer.
5. Beware of Drafts
Drafts can cause flames to flicker, flare, or spread unexpectedly.
Keep candles away from:
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Open windows
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Ceiling fans
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Air vents
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High-traffic walkways
A steady flame is a safer flame.
6. Use Candle Alternatives When Possible
Today’s flameless options are safer and just as magical.
Consider using:
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LED candles
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Wax warmers
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Lighted centerpieces
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Holiday-scented diffusers
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Smart lighting scenes through your CPSS App
You can enjoy the ambiance without any of the risk.
7. Make Sure Your Safety Devices Are Ready
Your CPSS system works silently behind the scenes to keep your home safe.
This holiday season, confirm that your:
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Smoke detectors are working and tested
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Monitored fire system is active
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CPSS App notifications are enabled for safety alerts
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Fire extinguishers are accessible and not expired
And if you ever need professional guidance or upgrades, CPSS is here to help.
Enjoy the Warmth of the Season — Safely
Candles can make the holidays feel magical, but safety must always come first.
A few simple habits can make all the difference in protecting your home and the people you love.
If you’d like assistance enhancing your fire and home safety this season:
📞 Call 800-949-1799
🌐 Visit CPSS.net
📩 Or contact us to schedule a safety consultation.
Stay safe. Stay cozy. And let CPSS keep your holidays bright — not hazardous.
