Who knew Hanukkah could be so dangerous?

And it’s not just the open flames on those Hanukkah menorahs … Turns out frying those potato latkes in hot oil is a fire hazard (keep the handle of the pan turned inward). And watch your sleeves as you light a candle and say the traditional blessing … and you can say a blessing over […]

And it’s not just the open flames on those Hanukkah menorahs …

Turns out frying those potato latkes in hot oil is a fire hazard (keep the handle of the pan turned inward). And watch your sleeves as you light a candle and say the traditional blessing … and you can say a blessing over real-live candles, but not those electric ones that plug in the wall.

The Orthodox Union, which lately seems to have guidelines for just about everything, has issued its annual Hanukkah safety kit (more resources here). I had no idea it could be this complicated-or hazardous.


From the press release:

In addition, the OU has provided guidelines from Rabbi Hershel Schachter, OU Halachic Decisor, on Chanukah fire safety. In accordance with Jewish law (halacha) Rabbi Schachter declared:

“If one is not going to be home while the Chanukah candles are lit, it is better that they not be lit, but one can light later in the evening if they will be home. There should always be someone watching or near the candles. In terms of using an electric menorah, you shouldn’t say a bracha (blessing) on it, although you are able to say a bracha on electric (incandescent) lights for Shabbat and Yom Tov candles. When lighting in a hotel room, one should make sure he has half an hour to let the candles burn, and then blow them out when he has to leave.”

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