Urban Outfitters Recall 2021: Candle Holders Pose Fire Hazard

Urban Outfitters is recalling its candle holders as they may pose a fire hazard. Since the Margo Taper Candle Holder has "flammable properties," it can actually catch on fire if the flame on the candle comes in contact with it.

This may then cause "property damage and/or personal injury," Urban Outfitters noted.

In December 2020, the company also conducted a recall of over 5,000 Swirled Taper and Sofia Taper Candle Holders for similar reasons.

In total, the company is recalling about 2,700 units of the Margo Taper candle holder, which is made from acacia or pine wood and comes in three different sizes, the recall notice at the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website read. The recall is also being conducted in cooperation with Canada since an additional 60 units of the product were sold there.

So far, there has been one report of the candle holder catching on fire but fortunately, no injuries were reported. Anyone who may have purchased the recalled candle holders is being advised to stop using them and to return them to get a full refund.

"Product may be returned in-store or shipped to Urban Outfitters using a prepaid shipping label provided by Urban Outfitters," the company said.

SKU Numbers of the affected candle holders can be checked at the CPSC website.

Candle Safety

"From 2014-2018, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 7,610 home structure fires that were started by candles per year," the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) said.

During this period, about 60% of the home candle fires were caused by having "some form of combustible material" close to the candle.

Among the National Candle Association's tips for candles, safety is to never light a candle on or close to something that can catch fire. This includes items such as books, possibly flammable decorations, or furniture.

"Always use a candleholder specifically designed for candle use," the organization said. "'It should be heat resistant, sturdy, and large enough to contain any drips or melted wax."

It's also important to trim the wick to 1/4 of an inch before lighting it and, to not let a candle burn completely, the organization said. Instead, users should stop lighting the candle while there is still 1/2 inch in the container or 2 inches for pillar candles.

Naturally, it's important to keep candles away from children or pets and do not forget to leave candles unattended. And if a candle's flame gets too high or starts flickering, users should trim the wick after letting the candle cool, then check for "unwanted drafts" before trying to light it again.