Halloween Safety Tips

Hidden within all the fun and excitement of Halloween are potential fire hazards. Here are some simple Halloween safety tips to help avoid seasonal hazards. During the years 2011-2015, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 840 home structure fires annually that began with decorations. These fires caused an average of two civilian deaths, 36 civilian injuries, and $11.4 million in direct property damage per year. Almost half, or 45%, of these fires were tied to decorations being too close to some type of heat source, such as a candle. A fire can start when candles are too close to decorations or when long, trailing costumes come into contact with candles. To keep your little trick-or-treaters and your home fire safe this Halloween follow these safety tips: Refrain from having an open flame with candles, instead use battery-operated candles or glow-sticks in your jack-o-lanterns. Choose the right costume by staying away from long or flowing fabric, and skip extraneous costume pieces. Avoid flammable decorations including dried flowers, cornstalks and crepe paper that are highly flammable. Keep decorations away from open flames and other heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters. Remember to keep all decorations away from doors so that they are not blocking any exits or escape routes. Make sure all of your smoke alarms are working and up to date. Provide flashlights to children or have them carry glow sticks as part of their costumes. Make sure if a child is wearing a mask that the eye holes are large enough to see out of them.