To safely and effectively burn a candle, ensure it's on a stable, heat-resistant surface away from flammable materials. Trim the wick before lighting, and let the wax melt fully across the top surface on the initial burn to prevent tunnelling. Avoid burning for extended periods and extinguish with a snuffer or gentle blow.
To properly trim a candle wick, you should aim for a length of about 1/4 inch (6mm). This ensures a clean burn and helps prevent soot and flickering flames. It's generally recommended to trim the wick before each burn and after extinguishing the flame, while the candle is still cool.