Candle Safety: Trader Joe’s Recalls Mango Tangerine Scented Candle Due to Fire Risk
Introduction:
Candles can create a cozy and relaxing atmosphere in our homes, but they also pose a fire risk. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), candles were responsible for four percent of reported home fires between 2018 and 2022, causing property damage, injuries, and even deaths. In light of this, retail chain Trader Joe’s has recently issued a recall notice for one of its popular candle products due to concerns about a potential fire hazard. This article will explore the details of the recall, provide insights into candle safety, and offer tips on how to minimize the risk of candle-related fires.
Trader Joe’s Recall:
Trader Joe’s is recalling its Mango Tangerine Scented Candle (SKU# 56879) after discovering an unexpected burn pattern that can cause a larger-than-expected flame. This poses a safety risk to consumers. The company has urged customers not to use the product and has offered a full refund for returns. The candle, made with a coconut-soy wax blend and a sweet fragrance, was sold for $3.99 per unit. Those with questions or concerns about the recalled candle can contact Trader Joe’s Customer Relations at (626) 599-3817.
The Dangers of Candles:
Candles may seem harmless, but statistics show that they can lead to devastating consequences. Each year, fire departments respond to approximately 5,910 home fires caused by candles, resulting in an average of 74 deaths, 558 injuries, and $257 million in property damages. More alarmingly, candles were responsible for six percent of injuries in home fires, four percent of property damage, and three percent of deaths between 2018 and 2022, as reported by the NFPA.
Causes of Candle Fires:
To understand how to prevent candle fires, it is important to identify the common causes. Half of all candle fires occur when flammable materials like curtains, furniture, bedding, mattresses, or clothing are placed too close to a lit candle. Additionally, over a third of candle fires start in the bedroom, where people often use candles for relaxation or as a source of ambient lighting.
Real-Life Incidents:
Tragic incidents involving candle-related injuries highlight the importance of candle safety. In one case, a baby boy from Georgia suffered burns after approaching a lit candle while having topical ointment on his skin for coughs and colds. The child’s clothes caught fire, resulting in a coma that lasted for a month. Fortunately, he eventually recovered. Similarly, a 6-year-old girl experienced severe burns when a candle fell on a sofa in 2018. She underwent multiple surgeries and had to have her left fingers and toes amputated.
Practicing Safe Candle Use:
To minimize the risk of candle-related fires, the National Candle Association (NCA), a trade group representing American candle manufacturers and suppliers, recommends several safety measures. Firstly, using a sturdy, heat-resistant candle holder that can contain all melted wax and drips is essential. It is also crucial to avoid placing candles near drafts, vents, or air currents to prevent rapid burning, sooting, and excessive dripping. Additionally, candles should not burn for longer than four hours and should cool for at least two hours before relighting.
Precautions and Recommendations:
The NCA advises against leaving candles unattended and keeping them away from flammable objects such as drapes, carpets, beddings, decorations, and paper. When using multiple candles, they should be spaced at least three inches apart to prevent improper burning. It is also important to extinguish a candle if the flame becomes too high or flickers repeatedly. Furthermore, during power outages or in disaster situations, it is advisable to use flashlights or battery-powered lights instead of candles to minimize fire risks.
Expert Recommendations:
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also emphasizes the importance of candle safety, especially during natural disasters or emergencies. The CDC recommends avoiding the use of candles in such situations, as home fires can pose a significant threat, and emergency services may have difficulty reaching affected areas. If candles must be used, they should be placed in safe holders away from anything that could potentially catch fire.
Conclusion:
While candles can create a warm and inviting atmosphere, it is crucial to prioritize safety when using them. The recent recall of Trader Joe’s Mango Tangerine Scented Candle due to a fire risk serves as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with candles. By following the recommendations of organizations like the NCA and the CDC and practicing responsible candle use, we can enjoy the ambiance they provide while minimizing the risk of fires and injuries in our homes.
