When Candles Start to Smoke on Shabbos

 

Question:

What should be done if a few candles start to smoke on Shabbos? Should they be extinguished, adjusted with a metal knife, so they stop smoking? As it is dangerous to stay in a room and inhale this air.

 

Answer:

You should walk out of the room unless there is imminent danger.

There is room to be lenient if you carry it very gently so that the candle does not shake. If there is movement of the wick, it could be considered lighting or extinguishing a fire on Shabbos. Therefore, if you can carry it in a way that is possible that there would not be movement it is okay.

It is still better if you carry it, in an indirect fashion e.g. under your arms, through the back of your hand etc.

 

Sources:

ראה שש”כ פרק יג סעיף יח שמתיר לטלטלו בנחת מדין גרף של רעי. ויש חולקים עליו.

ועכ”פ, כלאחר יד לטלטלן בנחת מותר לכו״ע.

 

 

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