Just read a report re:*The Dark Side of Candles* which may pertain to some
of you out there who burn candles on a fairly consistent basis.  Keep in
light the possible danger to ferrets while you read this: Seems that there
are a number of toxic substances in candle waxes, including benzene, a
carcinogen.  Airborne particles that make up *soot* are also a concern
where one might be breathing these particles too frequently.  Apparently,
the higher quality candles made from beeswax are supposed to burn more
efficiently than the cheaper ones, and that ordinary candles should produce
fewer emissions than the AROMATIC kind, which often contain oils designed
to be volatilized.  The safest course was determined to be: to avoid
candles with METAL wicks...which are typically found in the more DECORATIVE
types, and to trim the cotton or paper wicks found in most common household
candles.
 
The report states concerns of the possibility of lead contamination; a
known hazard to children.  A study found that emissions from lead
containing candles exceeded the EPA's health standard in only *one hour* of
burning!  This was info that I wasn't aware of, and thought I would share
for those of you who might be burning candles, aromatic or otherwise, near
the ferrets .  Can't be too safe where these guys are concerned, being as
vulnerable as they are.
 
Happy  Healthy Tails, Lizzi
[Posted in FML issue 2934]