Trader Joe’s recalls candles with ‘unexpected’ issue

(NEXSTAR) – If you bought a Trader Joe’s Mango Tangerine Scented Candle, don’t light it, the popular grocer warns.

TJ’s issued a recall Thursday, stating that the product has an “unexpected burn pattern.”

The candles can be dangerous for customers as the flame can spread from the wick to the wax, causing a “larger than expected flame,” according to a Trader Joe’s news release .

Anyone who bought one of the candles is urged to throw it away or return it to any Trader Joe’s store for a refund.

Customers seeking more information on the recall can call Trader Joe’s Customer Relations at (626) 599-3817 or send them an email .

Candles and fire risk in the U.S.

On average, there are 21 house fires sparked by candles every day in the US, with reports peaking in December, according to a 2020 analysis from the National Parks Service .

The NPS said fire departments across the country respond annually to 7,610 candle-related fires in U.S. that are responsible for 81 deaths and $278 million worth of property damage, on average.

If you are going to burn candles, experts recommend the following:

• Don’t leave candles burning when you aren’t home or think you may fall asleep
• Keep anything flammable at least 12 inches away from a flame. To be extra cautions, you can place a dinner plate under the candle.
• Consider stocking up on flashlights and batteries instead of candles in case of a power outage.

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