This is an important time of year to focus on holiday candle safety. Nothing adds to the spirit of the holidays like a collection of beautiful candles, glowing in the evening light. Nothing can ruin a holiday like a burned out home and a relative in the hospital – all as a result of careless use of candles.

During this time of year, we often use candles for religious purposes – and if not, then for general entertaining. Please have a look at these tips for ensuring your holiday activities are free from unwanted fires involving candles:

• Use candle holders that are sturdy, and won’t tip over easily.
• Put candle holders on a sturdy, uncluttered surface.
• Light candles carefully. Keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame.
• Don’t burn a candle all the way down — put it out before it gets too close to the holder or container.
• Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home.
• Have flashlights and battery-powered lighting ready to use during a power outage. Never use candles.

And, if you’re using candles as part of a religious activity, keep these tips in mind:

• Candles should be placed in a sturdy candle holder.
• Handheld candles should not be passed from one person to another at any time.
• When lighting candles at a candle lighting service, have the person with the unlit candle dip their candle into the flame of the lit candle.
• Lit candles should not be placed in windows where a blind or curtain could catch fire.
• Candles placed on, or near tables, altars, or shrines, must be watched by an adult.
• Blow out candles when you leave the room or go to sleep.
• If a candle must burn continuously, be sure it is enclosed in a glass container and placed in a sink, on a metal tray, or in a deep basin filled with water.