1. Choose a Suitable Location: Select a well-ventilated area with enough space for the smoke to disperse. Avoid using incense in tight or confined spaces.
2. Use a Proper Holder: Always place the incense stick in a suitable holder designed to hold the stick securely and catch any falling ash.
3. Position the Incense Stick: Insert the incense stick into the holder at a slight angle, ensuring that it's stable and won't tip over.
4. Light Safely: Light the tip of the incense stick and let it burn for a few seconds. Blow out the flame gently, leaving a red ember at the tip.
5. Allow Proper Airflow: If using multiple incense sticks, ensure they are spaced apart to allow proper airflow and avoid overcrowding.
6. Monitor the Burning: Keep an eye on the burning incense stick to ensure it doesn't pose a fire hazard or create excessive smoke.
7. Extinguish Thoroughly: When you're done using the incense, fully extinguish it by gently pressing the ember into a fireproof container filled with sand or rice. This prevents residual heat from causing accidents.
8. Dispose of Ash Properly: Once the incense has cooled, dispose of the ash in a safe manner. Empty the ash catcher into a trash bin, preferably outdoors, away from flammable materials.
9. Choose High-Quality Incense: Opt for good-quality incense made from natural ingredients to ensure a pleasant and safe burning experience.
Don'ts
1. Leave Unattended: Never leave a burning incense stick unattended. Always extinguish it when you're leaving the room or finishing your session.
2. Place Near Flammable Materials: Keep incense away from curtains, paper, furniture, and any other flammable objects that could catch fire from the burning ember or falling ash.
3. Overcrowd Incense Sticks: Avoid using too many incense sticks at once in a small space, as this can lead to excessive smoke and poor air quality.
4. Use in Windy Areas: Using incense outdoors in windy conditions can be hazardous, as it can cause the ember to spark and potentially start a fire.
5. Ignore Ventilation: Make sure the room is properly ventilated to prevent the accumulation of smoke and to maintain good air quality.
6. Touch Hot Ember: The ember at the tip of the incense stick remains hot even after extinguishing the flame. Avoid touching it until it has completely cooled.
7. Use Damaged Holders: If your incense holder is damaged or unstable, do not use it to hold the incense stick, as it can lead to accidents.
8. Inhale Directly: While incense smoke can be pleasant, inhaling too much of it directly can be irritating to the respiratory system. Keep a comfortable distance from the smoke.
9. Leave Children or Pets Unattended: If you have children or pets around, make sure they are supervised while incense is burning, and keep the incense out of their reach.