As families across Warwickshire prepare for Halloween celebrations, Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service is sharing simple precautions to help keep children, friends and loved ones safe.
With trick-or-treating, fancy-dress costumes and seasonal decorations all part of the fun, a little extra care can help prevent accidents and ensure Halloween remains an enjoyable occasion for everyone.
Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service is sharing the following safety advice:
- Road Safety – Children are likely to be out and about after dark, often wearing costumes that may make them harder for drivers to see. Motorists are encouraged to drive carefully in residential areas, while parents and carers should ensure children understand basic road safety and remain visible.
- Costume Safety – Where possible, choose costumes that carry the CE mark, as these are designed to meet relevant safety standards. Costumes should fit comfortably and not create trip hazards.
- Candle Safety – Battery-operated lights provide a safer alternative to candles, particularly when placed inside pumpkins. Any lit candles should be kept well away from children, costumes and furniture, and extinguished before bedtime.
- Burn Safety – In the event of clothing catching fire, remember to stop, drop and roll. Burns should be cooled under cold running water and medical attention sought as soon as possible.
With an increase in trick-or-treaters expected on local streets, drivers are reminded to take extra care, particularly in residential areas where children may be crossing roads or walking between houses after dark. Parents and carers can help improve visibility by choosing reflective accessories or carrying torches.
As Halloween costumes become increasingly elaborate, it is important to keep flammable items such as capes, veils and loose clothing away from naked flames. Residents decorating their homes are encouraged to consider battery-operated alternatives to candles and candle-lit pumpkins.
Anyone making a costume at home should avoid highly flammable materials and ensure the outfit fits properly to reduce the risk of trips, slips and falls.
Councillor Robert Gisbourne, Portfolio Holder for Fire & Rescue, Community Safety and Flooding at Warwickshire County Council, said:
"Halloween is a fantastic opportunity for families and communities to come together and have fun, but it is important that everyone stays safe while celebrating. Taking a few simple precautions can help prevent accidents and ensure the occasion is enjoyed by all.
"If a clothing fire does occur, remember to stop, drop and roll, cool any burns with cold water and seek urgent medical assistance where needed."
Visit the Warwickshire Fire and Rescue website for more safety tips: www.warwickshire.gov.uk/firesafety