Candles might be pretty, but they're still miniature fires. Follow these basic guidelines to ensure your candle burning experience is a pleasant one.

BEFORE BURNING

1. Trim the wick to ¼ inch each time before burning. Long or crooked wicks can cause uneven burning.
2. Place the candle on a stable, heat-resistant surface.
3. Keep the wax pool clear of wick trimmings, matches and debris at all times.

WHILE BURNING

1. Never touch or move a burning candle.
2. Always keep the candle within your sight. If you are going to leave the room, be sure to first blow out all candles.
3. Do not burn the candle longer than 4 hours at a time.

WHEN EXTINGUISHING

1. Use a candle snuffer to extinguish a candle to prevent hot wax from splattering.
2. Make sure the candle is completely extinguished before leaving the room.
3. Don't touch the candle until it has completely cooled.