Published on:
10
December 2001
Trading Standards Officers in Clackmannanshire, in conjunction with other colleagues from the East of Scotland Safety Group, have recently completed a survey of decorative candles to see just how safe these products are, and some hot results have been found.
The Group, which has representatives from Trading Standards in 10 local authorities in the east of Scotland, was recently formed to have a more co-ordinated approach to safety issues, to pool resources and share expertise.
A Group Spokesperson said: "The survey was carried out in response to various complaints that have been received from consumers in recent months, involving consumers being burnt picking up candles in containers to blow them out, and damage to furniture and property".
A range of different candles was tested, including gel candles in glass containers, candles with decorative coatings and candles with flowers or other items contained in the wax. While most candles performed satisfactorily, 40% had problems ranging from inadequate safety warnings to other more dangerous aspects such as a gel candle in a glass container, the outside of which reach a temperature of 185o.
Other hazards were candles in containers that were very unstable and easily toppled over, candles falling out of their holders, and candles burning too quickly allowing the spillage of melted wax. Some candles with flowers set in the wax were found to present a risk as the flowers caught fire and effectively become another wick, making the burning erratic and difficult to put out. One candle was even found to have a high lead content in the wick.
Trading Standards Officers will be following up on the results of the survey with the manufacturers and importers concerned, and will also be urging that a minimum safety standard for these products be introduced.
In the meantime consumers are advised to be aware of the dangers with all types of candles, be it traditional wax candles or gel candles in glass containers, and Trading Standards would urge them to follow these simple rules:-
Do not leave candles unattended Do not place candles in draughts or burn them near flammable material Use a candle snuffer to extinguish candles after use Be aware of the surface you are placing the candle on - their containers/holders can reach high temperatures, which could scorch furniture or even melt the surface they are place on
Clackmannanshire Trading Standards can be contacted via the Council's Development & Environmental Services helpline on 01259 452575.