{"id":358,"date":"2019-10-29T14:17:54","date_gmt":"2019-10-29T18:17:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/unitedwaterrestoration.com\/blog\/?p=358"},"modified":"2022-06-09T11:55:31","modified_gmt":"2022-06-09T15:55:31","slug":"avoiding-fire-damage-finding-a-fire-damage-contractor-if-these-tips-are-too-late","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/unitedwaterrestoration.com\/blog\/avoiding-fire-damage-finding-a-fire-damage-contractor-if-these-tips-are-too-late\/","title":{"rendered":"Avoiding Fire Damage & Which Fire Damage Contractor To Call"},"content":{"rendered":"

Whether it’s your favorite restaurant or your master bathroom, ambiance counts. Candles can be an excellent way to set a warm, welcoming mood. Of course, they can also present a significant hazard that requires a fire damage contractor. Here’s how to avoid ever having to type “fire damage contractor near me” into your preferred search engine.<\/p>\n

Locate a Restoration Specialist<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/span><\/p>\n

When in Doubt, Put It Out<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Just like sharks, the ocean, and toddlers, you should never turn your back on a lit candle. As a general rule, you should always be present \u2014\u00a0and awake \u2014\u00a0when candles are lit:<\/p>\n

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  1. Extinguish all candles before leaving the house.<\/strong> While it’s possible that Fido enjoys the smell of pumpkin spice as much as you do, there’s really no excuse to ever leave a candle burning when you’re out.<\/em><\/li>\n
  2. Put candles out before they burn all the way down to the bottom.<\/strong> As a general rule, extinguish a candle in a jar or similarly enclosed container when 0.5 inches of wax remains. For candles that aren’t contained, discontinue use when the candle drops to 2 inches in height<\/em>.<\/li>\n
  3. Don\u2019t leave candles burning overnight or use one as a nightlight.<\/strong> They may be calming, but it’s not 1612. If left unattended, they can turn a cozy December night into an emergency.<\/em><\/li>\n
  4. Don’t leave candles unattended around children or pets.<\/strong> Both are known for their curiosity, and neither are known for their calmness and coordination.<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Give Your Candles Some Space<\/strong><\/h2>\n

    Candles don’t do well in cramped spaces<\/a>. They need room to glow. Exercise common sense when it comes to candle placement to avoid injury:<\/p>\n

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    1. Keep candles at least one foot away from flammable materials, such as curtains, furniture, bedding, and papers.<\/strong> The majority of candle-related fires start when a lit candle is stationed too close to something that easily burns.<\/em><\/li>\n
    2. Avoid situating candles near air currents, such as those created by fans, vents, and drafts.<\/strong> Unexpected wind gusts can not only lead to candle flare-ups but can also carry papers and other loose, flammable items into the line of fire. Literally.<\/em><\/li>\n
    3. Keep candles a safe distance from each other, too.<\/strong> If you’re lighting multiple candles at once, leave at least 3 inches of space between them.<\/em><\/li>\n
    4. Exercise personal caution when lighting candles.<\/strong> Secure any loose clothing or long hair.<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

      Fire Damage Restoration Services<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/span><\/p>\n

      Show Your Candles Some TLC<\/strong><\/h2>\n

      Candles may be a simple way to add ambiance to your home, but they do require some maintenance. Remember these five tips as you care for your candles:<\/p>\n

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      1. Light candles on flat, even, heat-resistant surfaces.<\/strong> Additionally, make sure the holder that a candle is in is sturdy and secure \u2014 and that it’s designed to hold candles.<\/em><\/li>\n
      2. Trim your wicks.<\/strong> Long wicks can create an uneven burn and lead to dripping. Each time before you light a candle, cut the wick down to a height of approximately 0.25 inches, and be sure to dispose of the trimmings. Keep the candle’s surface free of debris.<\/em><\/li>\n
      3. Don’t try to relocate a burning candle.<\/strong> Wait until the wax pool solidifies to move it.<\/em><\/li>\n
      4. Read the fine print.<\/strong> Many candles have a manufacturer-suggested burning time detailed on the label. Don’t exceed these recommendations.<\/em><\/li>\n
      5. Pay attention to how your candle burns.<\/strong> If it’s flickering or spitting out smoke, it’s probably not burning correctly. Put it out, let it cool completely, trim the wick down to 0.25 inches, relocate it, and try again.<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

        Consider a Candle Alternative<\/strong><\/h2>\n

        You can skip virtually all of these steps and eliminate most worries by using a candle alternative. To achieve the same inviting glow, you might opt for the following:<\/p>\n