The safest candles for power outages are broad-based pillars or containers placed in enclosed glass holders, kept at least 12 inches from anything flammable.
For the full breakdown, see our best Candles For Power Outage guide.
When the lights go out, a flashlight or battery-powered lantern is the safer first choice. But if candles are your only option, the type you pick and where you put them matters far more than most people realize. The right candle in the right holder can burn for hours without trouble; the wrong setup is a leading cause of house fires during storms. Here is what to look for before you strike the match.
Why Candle Choice Matters During an Outage
A power outage often means darkness for hours, and that is exactly when candle fires spike. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has warned for years that candles used during outages cause a disproportionate share of home fires. The U.S. Fire Administration notes that December is the peak month for candle fires — the same season when winter storms knock out power.
The risk is not the flame itself. It is the combination of an unstable candle, a knock, and a flammable surface nearby. Choosing the right candle eliminates most of that danger before it starts.
What to Look for in a Candle
Not all candles are equally safe for emergency use.
Broad, stable base. A wide, low-profile candle is much harder to knock over than a tall taper. Pillar candles with a thick base or container candles in glass jars are the safest picks. Skip tapers entirely — they are designed for dinner tables, not dark rooms where someone might stumble.
Enclosed or shielded design. A glass hurricane holder or a globe that surrounds the flame protects it from drafts and contains the flame if the candle tips. Container candles, like those in mason jars or tins, offer built-in protection. The enclosure also keeps curious pets and children from reaching the flame.
Non-flammable holder. The candle’s holder must be sturdy and made of glass, ceramic, or metal. A wobbly plastic base or a lightweight tray does not qualify. The holder’s job is to stay upright and to catch any wax that drips.
Where to Place Your Candles Safely
Even the safest candle becomes a hazard in the wrong spot.
Preparation That Prevents a Candle Fire
References & Sources
- CDC. “Proper Use of Candles During a Power Outage.” Details safe candle placement and holder requirements.
- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. “CPSC Warns of Dangers of Generators and Candles During Power Outage.” Documents the fire risk of candles during outages.
- U.S. Fire Administration. “Candle Safety.” Covers candle fire statistics and safe-use practices.