Halloween is almost here and families across Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes are getting ready for spooky costumes, glowing pumpkins and plenty of trick-or-treating.
Whether you’re decorating your home, dressing up with the children or heading out to collect sweets, we want everyone to enjoy a happy, memorable and, most importantly, safe Halloween.
Here are a few simple ways to keep your family safe from fire while enjoying the celebrations.
Give your pumpkins a safer glow
There’s something special about seeing pumpkins lighting up doorsteps on Halloween night, but you don’t need a real flame to create that spooky atmosphere.
Why not swap traditional candles and tealights for battery-operated LED alternatives? They offer the same flickering glow, with some even changing colour to eerie greens, purples and reds, without the fire risk of a naked flame.
If you must use real candles, please keep them in suitable heat-resistant holders, away from decorations, costumes and anything that could catch fire. Never leave them unattended and keep them out of reach of children and pets.
After all, we want your pumpkins to light up the night, not your Halloween decorations.
Keep costumes scary for the right reasons
Choosing a Halloween costume is all part of the fun, but did you know children’s fancy-dress costumes are generally classified as toys rather than clothing?
When buying costumes, choose reputable retailers and look for UKCA or CE markings and safety warnings. Even costumes that meet safety standards can catch fire, so take extra care with flowing capes, loose fabrics and accessories around naked flames.
If you’re heading out trick-or-treating, keep children away from candles and lanterns around doorsteps. It’s also worth reminding them to stop, drop and roll if their clothing catches fire: stop moving, drop to the ground, cover their face and roll back and forth to help extinguish the flames.
Have a happy Halloween
We want your Halloween to be filled with laughter, excitement and happy memories, not unexpected scares.
By following these simple steps, the only thing we want you worrying about this Halloween is what to do with all those sweets after trick-or-treating.
Happy Halloween from all of us at Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service.
For more advice, visit our Halloween safety page and candle safety guidance.