Keep safe this Halloween with our ‘spooktacular safety’ advice
Halloween is a time for fun, frights, and festivities, but it’s also a time to stay mindful of safety risks. West Midlands Fire Service is encouraging everyone to enjoy the spooky season responsibly.
Simple precautions can help keep you, your family, and your friends safe as you celebrate. Whether you’re lighting up your home with pumpkins, dressing up for trick-or-treating, or hitting the streets with little ones, taking a few extra moments to think about safety can make a big difference.
Our advice covers everything from safe costume choices to tips for using candles or battery lights, and practical road safety reminders. Make sure this Halloween is memorable, for the right reasons!
Fancy dress costumes
We’re asking parents to be especially vigilant with children’s costumes.
Recent research from the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) found that tests on 128 costumes for children under seven years of age revealed more than 80% failed basic safety tests, including flammability and strangulation risks from cords.
With online marketplaces becoming more popular, we encourage buying costumes from trusted sources.
Pete Wilson, Head of Prevention at WMFS, advises: “Check costume labels to verify their fire resistance. Labels from less reputable sources and shops may not meet adequate safety standards, so always prioritise safety.
“If you’re dressing up, avoid naked flames and heat sources, like fires, heaters, wood burners, and kitchen stoves.
“Teach your children to ‘Stop, Drop, and Roll’ in case a fire affects their clothing.”
Candle safety
Candles are a staple of Halloween festivities, but they can also increase the fire risk in your home.
Always handle candles carefully, keep them within sight, and extinguish them before going to bed.
This year, consider using battery-operated LED candles in your pumpkin instead!
Our candle safety page offers valuable advice to keep you safe during Halloween and throughout the year.
Road safety
If you plan on trick-or-treating, remember to practice road safety.
Be cautious when crossing roads in low-light conditions and ensure you’re visible to drivers and other road users. High-visibility clothing can help you stay seen while out and about.
Always cross at safe locations, hold your child’s hand, and look both ways before crossing.
Outdoor Decorating
Decorating is a fun part of Halloween, but whether you’re decorating inside or outside, place your props in secure locations to prevent them from falling.
Be aware of trip hazards, and if you’re lighting any decorations, opt for battery-operated lights to enhance safety.
