CPSC Releases New Report on Residential Fires <br>
Latest data show record number of fatalities from candle fires
NEWS from CPSC
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Information and Public Affairs
Washington, DC 20207
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 21, 2001
Release # 01-176
CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: Scott Wolfson, (301) 504-7051
CPSC Releases New Report on Residential Fires
Latest data show record number of fatalities from candle fires
WASHINGTON, D.C.- A new report (pdf) shows that while deaths from residential
fires have been nearly cut in half from 4,500 in 1980 to 2,660 in 1998,
those caused by candles have increased dramatically. Candle deaths
increased 750 percent from 1980 (20 deaths) to 1998 (170 deaths).
In most cases, candles caused house fires when they were left
unattended, tipped over and ignited nearby combustibles. Almost half of
home candle fires start in the bedroom. Mattresses or bedding are the
most common items that ignite, followed by furniture (dressers, desks,
and tables) and then curtains. Tealights and tapers are common culprits
in candle fires.
A child playing with the candle itself or near the candle is one
of the biggest contributors to candle fires. Faced with fire, many
children hide in a closet or under a bed leading to tragic fatalities.
In fact, children under age 5 have a fire death rate more than twice the
national average.
"Candles are no longer used for the occasional dinner party. In
fact, only a small percent of candle fires start in dining rooms," said
CPSC Chairman Ann Brown. "Candle sales are booming and families are
lighting candles in their living rooms, family rooms, dens and
bathrooms. Fires from candles have increased dramatically, but they are
preventable. Reduce the chance of a fire, by following CPSC's simple
safety tips."
Keep matches, lighters and candles away from children.
Never leave burning candles unattended.
Keep combustible materials away from candles.
Don't put candles in a location where children or pets could knock
them down.
Use only non-flammable candle holders.
Always trim the wicks before lighting.
The new report shows that house fires have been dropped from 655,000 in
1980 to 332,300 in 1998, the latest year for which data is available. In
contrast, house fires caused by candles have increased, from 8,500 in
1980 to 12,900 in 1998.
CPSC standards and compliance activities have contributed to the overall decline in fires and deaths. For example, CPSC's standard for child-resistant lighters has helped reduce fire deaths from children playing with lighters by 43 percent since 1994. Other CPSC standards address the flammability of general wearing apparel, children's sleepwear, mattresses, and carpets and rugs. CPSC staff is working on standard proposals for upholstered furniture and for heating and cooking equipment. CPSC staff is also working with the candle industry to develop safety standards for candles to help reduce fires.