Handheld candles play an important role in church ceremonies, providing a symbolic and reverent atmosphere. However, their use comes with inherent fire risks. This guide will help ensure safe practices while allowing congregations to participate in services confidently.

Choosing the Right Candle Protection

Selecting the appropriate protective accessory is essential to minimise the risk of wax burns and fire hazards. There are three primary types of candle protector: drip shields, candle holders, and flame guards.

A. Drip Shields (Indoor Use - Drip Protection)

Drip shields offer protection against dripping wax. The candle is pushed through the middle of the shield. These are designed for indoor use.

1) Cardboard Drip Shields

• Price per Box: £13.98 (200 units)
• Price per Person: £0.07
• Compatible Candle Size: 3/8" - 1/2" diameter
• Best For: Short services and single-use events
• Pros: Cost-effective, widely used, disposable
• Cons: Limited protection against hot wax drips, single-use only
• Click here for more details or to order

2) Plastic Drip Shields

• Price per Box: £24.16 (100 units)
• Price per Person: £0.24
• Compatible Candle Size: 3/8" diameter only
• Best For: Services requiring better wax protection than cardboard
• Pros: More durable than cardboard, reusable
• Cons: Only suitable for 3/8" diam candles
• Click here for more details or to order

B. Candle Holders (Indoor Use - 100% Drip Protection)

Candle holders provide 100% protection from dripping wax and are intended for indoor use.

3) Aluminium Foil Candle Holder

• Price per Box: £19.50 (50 units)
• Price per Person: £0.39
• Compatible Candle Size: Up to 3/4" diameter
• Best For: Indoor venues requiring full wax containment
• Pros: Suitable for
• wide range of candle sizes 
• Cons: Not as durable as plastic options
• Click here for more details or to order

4) Plastic Candle Holder

• Price per Box: £65.95 (50 units)
• Price per Person: £1.32
• Compatible Candle Size: 1/2" diameter only
• Dimensions: 3" in diameter
• Best For: Indoor venues requiring maximum wax protection
• Pros: 100% wax containment, sturdy construction, reusable
• Cons: Higher cost per unit
• Click herre for more details or to order

C. Flame Guards (Indoor & Outdoor Use - Wind & Wax Protection)

Flame guards protect both the person’s hand and the flame, making them suitable for outdoor use or draughty indoor environments.

5) Cardboard Flame Guard & Drip Shield

• Price per Box: £78.00 (100 units)
• Price per Person: £0.78
• Compatible Candle Size: 6" and 9" long candles, up to 7/8" diameter
• Best For: Outdoor or draughty spaces
• Pros: Protects against wax drips and wind, cost-effective
• Cons: Less durable than plastic alternatives, limited reuse
• Click here for more details or to order

6) Plastic Flame Guard Lantern (Opaque, Reusable)

• Price per Box: £48.75 (50 units)
• Price per Person: £0.98
• Compatible Candle Size: 6" - 12" long, 1/2" - 7/8" diameter
• Best For: Indoor and outdoor use
• Pros: Unlimited reuse, durable design, shields flame well
• Cons: Larger size may not suit all settings
• Click here for more details or to order

7) Plastic Flame Guard Cup (Available in Clear, White, Blue)

• Price per Box: £123.48 (100 units)
• Price per Person: £1.23
• Compatible Candle Size: 1/2" - 7/8" diameter
• Dimensions: 2-1/2" height, 2-3/4" diameter
• Best For: Outdoor use where wind may be an issue
• Pros: Reusable, effective wind protection, multiple colour options
• Cons: Slightly larger footprint than other options, higher cost per unit
• Click here for more details or to order

2. Safe Handling Practices

To ensure a safe and meaningful candlelit service, follow these handling guidelines:

• Lighting the Candle:

  • Hold the unlit candle horizontally and tilt it into the flame of a lit candle to avoid wax dripping onto hands.
  • Use a candle lighter or taper to light candles
  • Avoid tilting a lit candle to prevent hot wax spills.

• Holding the Candle:

  • Keep the candle upright at all times.
  • Hold candles at a safe distance from clothing, hair, and hymn books.
  • When in close proximity to others, maintain a safe distance to prevent accidents.

• Extinguishing the Candle:

  • Use a candle snuffer or gently blow out the flame.
  • Ensure candles are completely extinguished before disposal or storage.

3. Fire Safety Measures

• Supervision: Assign responsible individuals to oversee candle distribution and collection.
• Fire Extinguishers: Ensure extinguishers are readily available and in working order.
• Emergency Plan: Have an evacuation plan in place and inform congregants of fire exits.
• Storage & Disposal: Store candles safely away from flammable materials. Used candles should be disposed of in a fireproof container.

By following these guidelines, churches can continue to enjoy the beauty and significance of candlelit services while ensuring the safety of their congregations.