Tennessee Candle Fires Caused $14M in Property Damage Between 2008-2012
The state fire marshal’s office is urging Tennessee residents to be careful when using decorative and fragranced candles.
Commissioner Julie Mix McPeak says from 2008 to 2012 Tennessee fire departments responded to more than 500 home structure fires started by candles.
The fires caused nine deaths, 30 injuries and more than $14 million in property damage.
Officials suggest using battery-operated flameless candles. But if using actual candles, suggestions include placing them in something sturdy that won’t tip over, keeping them at least 12 inches from anything that can burn, and protecting candle flames with glass chimneys or containers.
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, on average, 42 home candle fires are reported every day in the United States. More than half of all candle fires start when something that could burn, like curtains, is too close to the candle.
- Work Safety Group Releases List of ‘Dirty Dozen’ Employers
- Jury Awards $80M to 3 Former Zurich NA Employees for Wrongful Termination
- 4,800 Claims Handled by Unlicensed Adjusters in Florida After Irma, Lawsuit Says
- DraftKings Sued Over ‘Risk-Free’ Bets That Were Anything But
- Poll: Consumers OK with AI in P/C Insurance, but Not So Much for Claims and Underwriting
- EVs Head for Junkyard as Mechanic Shortage Inflates Repair Costs
- California Sees Two More Property Insurers Withdraw From Market
- Millions of Recalled Hyundai and Kia Vehicles, With Dangerous Defect, Remain on Road