By Kirstin Greaney-Stanger, Deputy Fire Marshal
The holiday season is upon us, and with the festivities comes yule tide or other traditions that may not be the most fire-safe. Candle fires peak in December and January at 11% each month. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), candles caused 2% of reported home fires, 3% of home fire deaths, 6% of home fire injuries, and 4% of the direct property damage in home fires. That is, on average, 20 home candle fires per day nationwide. Candles are open flames, which can make them dangerous if the candle is tipped over or when the candle is placed too close to anything that can burn.
Though prohibited in most occupancies, candles and open flames are allowed under certain circumstances. Where the code allows open flames (religious ceremonies, single-family dwelling, under permitted use), the following safety tips should be communicated.
- Keep lit candles at least 12 inches from anything that can burn.
- Place candles in a safe holder that will not burn or tip over.
- Consider using battery-operated flameless candles.
- Don't use lit candles in bedrooms, bathrooms, and sleeping areas.
- Blow candles out when leaving a room or home or going to bed.
As for addressing fire safety of candles/open flames in your district, chapter 3 of the Fire Code of North Dakota lists rules to prevent more fires in your community this holiday season!
Section 105 Permits
- Depending upon the code adopted, permits may be required to use candles or open flames.
- The Fire Code of North Dakota does not require permits but allows local jurisdictions to if the local code does.
- Typical occupancies where permits would apply may include assembly occupancies such as restaurants.
Section 308 Open Flames
- Addresses where open flames (such as candles) are prohibited and may be used under limited circumstances and occupancy types.
- Unless specifically allowed, candles are prohibited under this section of code.
Section 806 Natural Decorative Vegetation in New and Existing Buildings
- Section 806.3 specifically restricts any candle use near decorative vegetation such as natural cut trees.
If you or your department needs assistance with risk reduction ideas or has code questions, please feel free to reach out to the North Dakota State Fire Marshal’s Office or visit our website; we will help however we can. Have a safe and happy holiday season!