Winter Storm Preparedness: Using Candles Safely During Power Outages

Stay Safe and Warm During Winter Storms

Winter storms can strike without warning, leaving homes without power for hours or even days. While candles can provide light and a small amount of warmth during an outage, it's essential to use them safely and understand their limitations.

Can Candles Really Heat Your Home?

Let's be honest: candles alone won't heat your entire home during a winter storm. However, they can provide localized warmth and comfort in a small, enclosed space. A single candle produces about 80 watts of heat—not much, but when used strategically with multiple candles in a smaller room, they can take the edge off the cold.

The Clay Pot Heater Method

One popular technique is the clay pot heater. By placing a terracotta pot over several candles (safely arranged on a heat-resistant surface), the pot absorbs and radiates heat more effectively than candles alone. This method can raise the temperature in a small room by a few degrees, making it more comfortable during an outage.

Essential Safety Guidelines

Never leave candles unattended. This is the golden rule of candle safety, especially during emergencies when you might be distracted or stressed.

Keep candles away from flammable materials. Curtains, blankets, papers, and other combustible items should be at least three feet away from any open flame.

Use stable, heat-resistant holders. Place candles on sturdy surfaces that won't tip over, and always use proper candle holders or heat-safe dishes.

Ensure proper ventilation. While you want to stay warm, burning multiple candles in a sealed room can deplete oxygen and produce carbon monoxide. Crack a window slightly to maintain air circulation.

Keep candles out of reach of children and pets. During the chaos of a power outage, it's especially important to keep flames away from curious hands and paws.

Best Candles for Emergency Preparedness

Not all candles are created equal when it comes to emergency use. Here's what to look for:

Soy candles are an excellent choice for emergency preparedness. They burn cleaner than paraffin candles, producing less soot and fewer toxins—important when you're burning multiple candles in an enclosed space. Our hand-poured soy candles are designed to burn evenly and efficiently, making them ideal for extended use during outages.

Long burn times are crucial. Look for candles with burn times of 40+ hours so you don't run out of light and warmth too quickly.

Multiple wicks can provide more light and slightly more heat, though they'll burn through the candle faster.

Unscented or lightly scented options may be preferable if you're burning many candles at once, as strong fragrances can become overwhelming in a closed space.

Building Your Winter Storm Candle Kit

Prepare before the storm hits by assembling an emergency candle kit:

• 30-70 long-burning soy candles
• Waterproof matches and lighters (store multiple in different locations)
• Heat-resistant candle holders or plates
• A small terracotta pot for the clay pot heater method
• Candle snuffer for safe extinguishing
• Flashlights and batteries as backup

Beyond Heat: The Comfort Factor

While the practical heat from candles is limited, there's something deeply comforting about candlelight during a storm. The warm glow creates a sense of calm and normalcy when everything else feels chaotic. Scents like vanilla, cedar, or cinnamon can provide aromatherapy benefits, helping to reduce stress and anxiety during challenging situations.

Other Winter Storm Essentials

Candles should be just one part of your winter storm preparedness plan. Also keep on hand:

• Blankets and warm clothing layers
• Non-perishable food and water
• Battery-powered radio
• First aid kit
• Phone chargers and power banks
• Prescription medications

Stay Prepared, Stay Safe

Winter storms are unpredictable, but your preparedness doesn't have to be. By keeping quality candles on hand and knowing how to use them safely, you'll have one more tool in your emergency kit. Remember: candles provide comfort, light, and a small amount of warmth—but they're not a substitute for proper heating or professional emergency services.

Stock up on our premium soy candles today and be ready for whatever winter throws your way. With proper preparation and safety practices, you can weather any storm with confidence.

Stay home, stay safe, just light a candle!

Emilio Horton

Dallas, Texas