⚠ Emergency: If a candle fire spreads beyond the candle — leave immediately, close the door, call 999.

Online Workshop — 3 December 2026, 18:30–19:30 GMT

Candle Safety Workshop

A free 60-minute online workshop on candle fire safety timed for the festive period, when candle use peaks and fire incidents spike. Covers placement rules, seasonal risks, what to do if a candle fire spreads, and flameless alternatives.

Free to attend Online 60 minutes Recording available

Why December?

Candle-related fires spike by approximately 30% in November and December compared to the annual average. The causes are consistent: dried Christmas tree needles, more candles given as gifts, and reduced vigilance during social gatherings. A single session before the festive season is the highest-impact timing for this content.

Workshop agenda

18:30 Welcome and candle fire statistics overview
18:35 Why candles are the leading festive season fire cause
18:45 The placement and proximity rules — 30 cm and other guidance
18:55 Candles and Christmas trees: an especially dangerous combination
19:05 Safer alternatives: flameless candles and electric wax warmers
19:10 What to do if a candle fire spreads
19:20 Smoke alarm check: getting ready for the festive period
19:25 Q&A
19:30 Close and resources

What you will learn

  • The statistics behind candle fires — frequency, time of day, and primary location in the home
  • The 30 cm clearance rule and why it matters more near Christmas trees and dried decorations
  • How to identify candle holders that are unstable or poorly rated
  • Why "just popping out" is the leading cause of candle fires — and the habit that prevents it
  • The modern flameless alternative landscape — LED candles, wax warmers, reed diffusers
  • How to check your smoke alarms are working before the festive period

Pre-workshop reading

Our candle safety guide covers the core rules in depth and is recommended reading before the session. For related seasonal fire risks, see our Christmas tree fire risks article and the overnight fire safety guide — candles left burning unattended overnight are among the most dangerous scenarios covered.

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Frequently asked questions