Candles are used in various religious services and ceremonies and can be an essential part of worship. However, they can pose serious fire risks to religious institutions and should be used with caution. This article discusses the risks candles pose and how to mitigate them.
The Risks
Candles are a fire hazard that can cause harm to people and property. According to the National Fire Protection Association, of the 1,780 church fires reported each year in the United States, 4% are started by an open flame.
Church fires also peak during December since there is an increased use of seasonal decorations, including wreaths, straw, wooden crèches and draped fabric. In addition to property damage, all religious organizations are at risk of candles causing harm to attendees. Hot wax can come into contact with skin or clothing, and hair could come into contact with the flame.
Minimizing Risk
To prevent fire damage, religious organizations must exercise caution when using candles. The best way to minimize risk is to use flameless candles since there is no open flame. Flameless candles also use little power, last a long time and look like real candles.
If real candles are used, consider the following safe practices:
- Choose slow-burning candles. Cheaper, low-quality candles will burn quickly, allowing the flame to get dangerously close to foliage or decorations.
- Keep combustible materials away. Place candles in metal holders on noncombustible surfaces like stone or brick. Be sure to use holders that are capable of handling dripping wax.
- Assign responsible people to handle and blow out candles. Great care must be taken when people hold candles during ceremonies. Supervise children to ensure they don’t get too close to other people or combustible materials. Have trusted members ensure all candles are blown out.
- Keep matches and lighting devices in a secure spot. Store any materials involved in lighting the candles out of the reach of children.
- Have accessible fire extinguishers and fire blankets. Be sure to train people how to use fire extinguishers properly.
- Practice life safety. Keep exits clear at all times and have an emergency exit plan for evacuating the building promptly. The plan should also account for those with mobility issues.
Taking simple precautions can ensure that candles are a safe part of any religious ceremony. For more information, contact us today.
This material is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to give specific legal or risk management advice, nor are any suggested checklists or action plans intended to include or address all possible risk management exposures or solutions. You are encouraged to retain your own expert consultants and legal advisors in order to develop a risk management plan specific to your own activities.
ChurchInsure is a division of Anchor Insurance Agencies specializing in the unique insurance and risk management needs of religious institutions. Visit our website to learn how we can serve you at anchor-insurance.com/churchinsure.
