Christmas Candles

12/23/2020 (Permalink)

Beautiful candles

“In the warm yellow glow of the Christmas Candles

I see the magic of Christmas shining bright, shining bright…”

From Christmas Candles by Breen, LeVeen, Sampson

The fragrance and ambience of candles have long-outlived their pragmatic use as a source of light in our modern world.  Yet, they continue to be a part of almost every household, especially at the Holidays: so many fragrances, so many shapes and styles to suit the occasions!

As you enjoy the warmth of candlelight and the sensory pleasure of the seasonal aromas, we wish for you to be safe burning your candles.  There is no need for many to be concerned about burning candles on Christmas trees, but please be cautious throughout your decorated homes.  Fires caused by burning candles have destroyed more than one family’s holiday season.

Please be vigilant in your use of candles, making sure to always keep an eye on them as they burn:

• Keep from touching other decorations, i.e., greens, ribbons, silk flowers.
• Try to use candles in containers: jars, votive glass, etc.
• Place columns, 3-wicked candles, tapers and other free-standing candles on a fire-resistant tray or in a bowl. Monitor the wax flow that may occur as the edge cracks.

Not all candles are created equal.  Many inexpensive candles contain inorganic materials that, when burned, can send toxins into the air of our enclosed spaces.  They often give off more soot, too.  Quality soy candles and fragrances from essential oils will still release soot into the air, but generally burn cleaner.  Keeping any burning candle away from walls and ceilings will reduce the chance of soot residue staining those surfaces.

A candle’s flame is often seen as Holy Fire.  Please, let’s keep it that way.  May your holidays, however you celebrate, be merry and blessed!