Firefighters are urging families to swap real candles for battery powered tealights this Halloween.
The simple switch can help prevent decorations and costumes catching alight and could cut emergency callouts at one of the busiest nights of the year for preventable fires.
Around one in eight house fires start with naked flames such as candles, matches or cigarettes. With costumes, synthetic fabrics and paper decorations all in the mix, a tiny spark can turn into a frightening incident in seconds. Battery powered tealights and glow sticks give the same spooky glow without the risk.
Parents are also being asked to check children’s outfits before big nights out. Many fancy dress costumes are classed as toys rather than clothing which means they do not have to meet the same fire safety standards as everyday garments. Shoppers should look for a UKCA or CE mark on the packaging and avoid unmarked products.
Always look for a UKCA or CE mark on the packaging. If it’s missing, the costume might not meet legal safety requirements.
Kate Saint, Head of Prevention at Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, said:
“If a pumpkin with a battery-powered tealight gets knocked over, or you forget to turn it off overnight, nobody gets hurt and nothing is damaged. They’re a stress-free, safe option that still creates that same spooky glow.”
Top tips to stay safe this Halloween:
• Keep costumes well away from naked flames.
• Use battery-powered candles or glow sticks instead of real candles.
• Add a layer of normal clothing underneath for extra protection.
• Teach children to “stop, drop, and roll” if their costume catches fire - practise it, and remind them to cover their face with their hands.
• If you’re out after dark, add reflective tape or glow sticks to make costumes more visible.
This is just how quickly a costume can ignite and how to react if it happens.
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