N E W S

Vol 15, No. 4       LINCARE is a National Supplier of Home
Fall '03          Oxygen and Respiratory Therapy Services

Candles may pose problems many consumers aren't aware of. High soot production from certain candles can cause respiratory health problems as well as the soiling of walls, appliances and furniture, said Marie Hammer, a home environment professor at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

Although candles may seem harmless, some varieties can produce indoor concentrations of soot that exceed levels allowed in outdoor air by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. "Soot particles are very small - less than 1 micron - and easily penetrate to the deepest areas of the lung and, according to research, can stay in the lungs for a considerable period of time," Hammer said.

Studies have shown that microscopic soot particles can aggravate respiratory illnesses. Although researchers have studied the health risks of soot from diesel exhaust and factory emissions, no studies have focused specifically on residential exposure to candles. Hammer said candle-produced soot particles can penetrate almost all residential air conditioning filters, circulating the particles throughout the home.

For the candle enthusiast, she offers the following tips:

• Check for hard wax - avoid soft or gel candles

• Unscented candles produce less soot than their aromatic counterparts.

• Thin, braided wicks that curl when burned are ideal - steer clear of thick orwire-core wicks.

•Candles should have a low, even flame when burned.

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•Tapered and votive candles tend to burn cleanest avoid candles that have been poured into glass jars or ceramic containers.

• Check multi-wick pillar candles periodically to ensure even burning. ·

• Many candles come with instructions - take a moment to look them over since some candles require special maintenance.

Hammer also suggested keeping lit candles away from drafts created by open windows, fans or air conditioning vents candles in a draft could produce up to 50 percent more soot. If people burn multiple candles over the holidays, they should periodically ventilate their home by opening windows

Do's and Don'ts

• Don't use alcohol or take any other sedating drugs because they will slow your breathing rate.

• Make sure you order more oxygen from your dealer in a timely manner.

• Use water-based lubricants on your lips or nostrils. Don't use an oil-based product like petroleum jelly.

• To prevent your cheeks or the skin behind your ears from becoming irritated, tuck some gauze under the tubing. If you have persistent redness under your nose, call your physician.

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