Make Sure Your Festive Candles are Not a Fire Risk

With Christmas being the season for candles, it’s worth ensuring you avoid any potential fire risks posed by flammable candle holders and decorations.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission says combustible candle holders can pose a fire risk if they catch on fire and remain on fire for more than five seconds, instead of self-extinguishing.

“Candle holders and decorations that ignite from the heat of the candle are permanently banned from supply in Australia as they are extremely dangerous,” ACCC Deputy Chair Delia Rickard said. “Unfortunately, new products and designs appear on the market in the festive season that are poorly made and do not comply with product safety regulations.”

“Before buying a novelty candle, ask the supplier – has this product been tested and is it safe?” Ms Rickard said.

The ACCC has recently found banned products being supplied in Western Australia, Victoria, New South Wales and online and is working with suppliers to ensure these products are removed.

“Although candles come with expected fire risks, consumers are entitled to expect that candle holders and decorations do not catch fire simply from lighting the candle.”

“The ACCC will continue to check for banned and dangerous products in the lead-up to Christmas,” Ms Rickard said.

Recalls:

DK Choices Pty Ltd—Musical Rotating Sparkling Candles: https://www.recalls.gov.au/content/index.phtml/itemId/1066032(link is external)

Jenadidiz Imports—Musical Flower Candle: https://www.recalls.gov.au/content/index.phtml/itemId/1066194(link is external)

Candle safety tips:

• Be extra careful using novelty candles that have sparkler- or firework-like flames (often used for lighting several candles). Carefully read and follow the instructions on the packaging.
• Avoid fires by keeping candles away from flammable Christmas and festive decorations. Don’t leave burning candles unattended and store matches away from children.
• Subscribe to email alerts and RSS feeds from recalls.gov.au(link is external) to stay informed about recalls of these products.
• You can report unsafe candle holders to the ACCC by visiting productsafety.gov.au/reportanunsafeproduct(link is external) or calling the ACCC on 1300 302 502.

Further information on the combustible candle holder ban, go to

https://www.productsafety.gov.au/content/index.phtml/itemId/981262