Seamus Hammond
Burning incense in university halls is a contentious topic. While some students enjoy the scent and find it relaxing, others dislike it and may even have adverse reactions such as coughing or asthma attacks. Many universities prohibit the burning of incense due to fire hazard concerns, and some students have reported being fined for possessing candles or incense. However, several students have admitted to burning incense in their rooms without repercussions, and some universities allow smoking, which suggests that burning incense may be tolerated to some extent. It is important to check the accommodation contract and be considerate of roommates and neighbours.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Burning incense in uni halls | Not allowed due to fire hazard and permanent odour |
| Burning candles in uni halls | Not allowed due to fire hazard and permanent odour |
| People's opinion on burning incense in uni halls | Some people like it, some people hate it |
| People's opinion on burning candles in uni halls | Some people like it |
| Burning incense and candles in uni halls | Some people do it anyway |
| Getting caught burning incense and candles in uni halls | May get fined or given a stern talking to |
| Burning incense and candles in uni halls with open windows | Less likely to get caught |
| Burning incense and candles in uni halls with closed windows | More likely to stink up the whole corridor |
| Burning incense and candles in uni halls without causing a fire | Possible if being careful and not leaving things unattended |
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What You'll Learn
Fire risk and safety
Burning incense can be enjoyable and safe when done correctly and with caution. However, it is important to be aware of the potential fire risks and safety hazards associated with it.
Firstly, it is crucial to understand that burning incense does pose a fire hazard. While the flame may not be conspicuous, the burning incense and the resulting ash can both start fires. Therefore, it is important to never leave incense unattended and to regularly monitor it while it is burning. Always use incense with an appropriate holder or burner, and place it on a stable surface away from flammable objects and busy areas. When burning multiple sticks, be cautious as one stick can accidentally light another, causing it to burn through and fall outside the holder.
Proper ventilation is also essential when burning incense. Always ensure a source of fresh air by keeping a window slightly open to prevent the buildup of smoke, which can be a health hazard. The smoke produced by burning incense contains particulates that can be harmful, leading to respiratory issues and allergic reactions. It is important to avoid intentionally breathing in the smoke and to keep it away from anyone who may be sensitive to it. Studies have also linked incense smoke to an increased risk of asthma, heart disease, and cancer, so anyone with underlying health conditions should consult a medical professional before using incense.
In a shared living space like university halls, it is important to be considerate of your neighbours. Some people may be sensitive to the smell or have respiratory conditions like asthma that are triggered by incense. It is always a good idea to communicate with your neighbours and ask about any potential issues. Additionally, be mindful of the placement of your incense and avoid burning it near curtains or other flammable objects that could accidentally catch fire.
While the risk of fire from incense sticks alone is minimal, it is important to use proper burning techniques to further minimise this risk. Always use a proper plate or holder to catch any molten resin or ash that may fall, and avoid burning incense near flammable materials or items that could easily spark, such as dry papers.
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Asthma and allergies
Burning incense is a common practice in many cultures for religious and cultural purposes, including meditations, celebrations, and spiritual and ancestral worship. However, it is important to be aware of the potential health risks associated with burning incense, especially for individuals with asthma and allergies.
Incense fumes contain carbon, sulfur, nitrogen oxides, formaldehyde, and other polycyclic aromatic volatile compounds, which can be carcinogenic. The particulate matter generated from burning incense is significantly higher than that of cigarettes, and the smoke can linger in furniture, clothing, and other articles for months. This "thirdhand smoke" poses risks to family members, including children, who are exposed to it.
Several studies have found a link between incense burning and adverse respiratory effects, particularly in adolescents and children. Exposure to incense smoke has been associated with increased respiratory symptoms, such as cough and phlegm, and a decline in lung function. In a study of children in northern Taiwan, researchers examined the association between incense burning at home and lung function in adolescents aged 14-16 who participated in an asthma-screening program. The results indicated that daily exposure to incense smoke is a risk factor for respiratory health, especially in children who spend a significant amount of time indoors. Another study reported that the frequent burning of Chinese incense is associated with asthma in adolescents, and children exposed to incense burning in damp houses are at an increased risk of developing asthma or allergies, especially if there is a paternal history of these conditions.
For individuals with asthma or allergies, burning incense can pose significant health risks. In a case presented at the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI) Annual Scientific Meeting, an 87-year-old woman with a history of asthma and COPD experienced unexplained shortness of breath. Upon further investigation, it was revealed that she burned incense daily as part of her cultural practices. The authors of the paper recommended that she stop burning incense to improve her respiratory health.
If you wish to burn incense in your university accommodation, it is important to first check your contract or agreement papers to ensure it is allowed. Some universities have a ban on anything relating to fire in dorm rooms, including incense. It is also essential to be considerate of your roommates or neighbors who may be sensitive to strong smells or have respiratory conditions. Burning incense with open windows or ventilation can help dissipate the smoke and reduce its impact. Additionally, choosing natural incense with 100% natural ingredients and low smoke varieties may be more suitable for individuals with allergies or asthma.
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Covering up the smell of smoking
Burning incense in university halls is a common practice, with many students using it to cover up the smell of smoking. While some universities may have specific rules against it in their contracts, others may not. It is important to check your contract to see if it is allowed, and even if it is, it is considerate to be mindful of other students who may not enjoy the smell or have respiratory issues.
If you are looking to cover up the smell of smoking, there are several methods you can use. Firstly, prevention is key. Always smoke outdoors, preferably in well-ventilated areas or during cooler temperatures. If you must smoke indoors, open a window, and avoid smoking near soft furnishings, as the smell tends to linger on them. You can also try to cover up as much skin as possible while smoking to prevent the smell from clinging to your body.
After smoking, thoroughly wash your hands with soap, paying attention to your fingers and the area between them, as well as your palms. You can also use facial cleansers or soap and water to wash your face, especially around your mouth and chin. If you have facial hair, be sure to scrub it thoroughly. Eating an orange after smoking can also help mask the smell on your breath, and using scented hair products can help eliminate the smell from your hair.
Finally, if you are looking to eliminate the smell of cigarettes from your room, you can try ventilating the room by opening windows and using fans. Cleaning the walls with heavy-duty cleaners, using an odour-sealant primer, and removing soft surfaces can also help reduce the smell.
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Damaging the odour of the room
The use of incense has been a topic of discussion for students living in university halls. While some students have mentioned that their university accommodation contracts explicitly prohibit the use of incense, candles, and other fire hazards, others have stated that their contracts do not mention incense specifically and that they have used it without any issues. However, it is important to note that the use of incense can be a sensitive topic due to its potential impact on the health and comfort of others.
Incense is a smoke-emitting substance that can leave a strong scent in a room. While some people enjoy the aroma of incense, others may find it overwhelming or unpleasant. The smoke released from burning incense contains various compounds, including natural and unnatural ingredients that create small, inhalable particulate matter. Recent studies have confirmed the presence of carcinogens in this particulate matter, indicating a potential link to cancer, asthma, and other respiratory issues. Therefore, it is essential to be considerate of those who may be sensitive to the smell or have respiratory conditions.
Additionally, it is worth noting that incense does not actually remove bad odours from a room. Instead, it merely masks or overwhelms the existing scent with its own fragrance. The underlying odour may persist or even be prolonged by the presence of incense. To truly eliminate a bad smell, it is recommended to address the source of the odour and employ methods such as activated carbon filters or ozone generators to "scrub" the air.
Furthermore, the scent of incense can be challenging to remove from a room. Simply opening a window or using air freshening sprays may not be sufficient. For effective odour removal, it is suggested to combine ventilation with other techniques. This may include using a fan to blow air out of the window, placing bowls of baking soda around the room, or sprinkling baking soda over affected fabrics and upholstery. These methods can help absorb and eliminate the incense odour.
In conclusion, while the use of incense in university halls may be permitted depending on the specific rules and regulations of the accommodation, it is important to be mindful of the potential impact on others and the persistence of the scent. To maintain a pleasant and healthy living environment for all residents, it is advisable to prioritise good ventilation, be considerate of those with health conditions, and address any underlying sources of bad odours rather than solely relying on incense as a masking agent.
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Using alternatives like essential oils
While burning incense in university halls may not be prohibited by the rules, it is important to be considerate of your neighbours, some of whom may dislike the smell or even have asthma. If you are looking for alternatives to incense sticks, essential oils could be a good option.
Essential oils are a safer alternative to burning incense, as they do not require an open flame and can be used in a diffuser, which is a more lung-friendly option. They also come in a wide variety of scents, so you can still create a pleasant aroma in your space. When choosing an essential oil, opt for natural options that list their ingredients, avoiding those that contain "parfum" or "fragrance", which are typically synthetic.
Some essential oil blends you could try include myrrh and frankincense, or you could create your own unique blends. You can also find essential oils in incense sticks, which are a good option if you want to burn them, but be aware that some of these may also contain synthetic fragrances.
Using essential oils in a diffuser is a safer and more considerate option than burning incense in university halls, allowing you to enjoy a pleasant aroma while being mindful of your neighbours' comfort and health.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on your university's rules. Some universities prohibit burning incense in dorms due to fire hazards and the potential for permanent odour damage. However, some people still do it, and there are tricks to avoid getting caught, such as opening a window or using a diffuser.
If you want to burn incense without getting caught, make sure your room doesn't smell strongly of it. Open a window, or burn it near your window. You can also use a diffuser, which is safer for your lungs and less likely to trigger smoke alarms.
Burning incense in your dorm can be a fire hazard and may set off smoke alarms. It can also cause odour damage to the walls and furnishings, which you may be held financially responsible for. Some people also dislike the smell of incense, and it can trigger coughing or asthma.
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