Storing Candles as Part of Your Alternative Fuel Source Plan

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Emergency Candles

Why Store Candles for Emergencies

When the electricity goes out, candles can provide simple and cost-effective emergency lighting. As a fuel alternative in emergencies, they are easy to use, widely available, and require no special equipment. While not a primary source of light or heat, including a store of emergency candles in your emergency preps is a smart and practical plan.

Candles produce a steady, soft flame that can illuminate a small space and provide comfort. They are self-contained, making them ideal for situations where electric lighting or battery-powered devices may not be practical. Lightweight, compact, and easy to store, candles are an excellent addition to any emergency plan. Though they are not the brightest light source, their ease of use and reliability make them valuable in a crisis.

About Candles

Scented vs Unscented

Candles made from unscented wax are the best option for emergency lighting. They are safe to burn indoors and produce minimal toxins compared to scented candles. Unscented candles are also less likely to cause irritation or discomfort during prolonged use.

Synthetic vs Natural Waxes

Candles are made from either synthetic or natural waxes. Synthetic waxes include paraffin and gel waxes, while natural waxes include soy, palm, beeswax, coconut, bayberry, carnauba, and stearin, which can also be synthetic.

Most Commonly Used Waxes for Emergency Candles

Paraffin: Candles made from paraffin, or a paraffin wax blend, tend to be less expensive than natural wax candles. They are widely available in various sizes and shapes, making it suitable for different emergency needs. They tend to produce more soot compared to natural wax but are still a popular choice for emergencies. Liquid paraffin is another option, offering a cleaner burn with longer-lasting performance.

Beeswax: Beeswax is a popular natural alternative to paraffin. Beeswax candles tend to be more expensive because they often burn longer and cleaner than their paraffin counterparts. They offer added benefits, such as purifying the air by emitting negative ions.

Best Candle for Emergency Use

Candles designated as emergency candles will perform better and give you the longest lasting light and are the ones you should be storing with your other emergency supplies.

What is an emergency candle?

An emergency candle is a specially designed candle intended for use during power outages, disasters, or other emergency situations. These candles are made to burn longer than regular candles, often lasting several hours or even days, depending on their size. They are crafted with high melting point wax to prevent rapid melting, produce minimal soot and smoke for safer indoor use, and feature a stable base or container to reduce the risk of tipping or fire hazards.

The best options include pillar and container candles.

Pillar Candles

These substantial candles are self-supporting and come in various sizes, often larger than standard candles. They have extended burn times, often lasting up to 120 hours.

They are available in paraffin and beeswax.

Reliable brands include - Hyoola (beeswax or paraffin); Root Candle (beeswax blend); Yankee Candles (paraffin); Candle by the Hour (beeswax)
- make sure to purchase unscented

Container Candles

Enclosed in glass or metal containers, these candles provide a stable base, reduce wax spillage, and are safe for use around children and pets. The burn time of a container candle can vary based on the size of the container and the type of wax used.