It is imperative to avoid burning taper candles near any drafts, doing so will cause rapid and uneven burning and excessive dripping. Avoid burning candles near combustible materials. Always store candles in a cool, dark, dry place. They should be stored flat to prevent warping. Always keep wicks trimmed to one-half inch. Long or crooked wicks cause uneven burning and dripping. Candles will fade if left in the light for an extended period of time. Never put candles in a window or directly expose to bright outdoor light or indoor spotlights. Candles should always be burned in proper candle-holders or bases and should be a minimum of two and half inches apart from each when burning outside a holder. Extinguish candles with a candle snuffer. If a wick becomes too short to light, carve away enough wax to expose the fresh wick, then trim 1/4" off the top of the candle and burn the candle to reform its appearance (tapers are the exception to this rule).