Halloween Safety Tips

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Halloween is the second most decorated holiday in the United States, following Christmas; however, these decorations have the potential to be hazardous if not used properly. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that approximately 1,600 residential fires each year during the holidays can be attributed to decorations, and to candles in most cases. To help prevent such fires, the NFPA and fire departments across the United States educate citizens about how to be fire safe at Halloween by issuing public safety tips.

One major focus of fire safety during Halloween involves the use of alternative light sources in decorating Jack-O-Lanterns. Retailers now offer a variety of battery operated light sources that mimic candlelight and are much safer. Candles have the potential of being accidentally knocked over and starting fires. Also, trick-or-treaters may inadvertently brush up against a lit candle with their costumes, setting themselves on fire.

Related to this, the NFPA suggests that children wear costumes that are marked "flame-retardant" or "flame-resistant", in case they do visit a house that is decorated using candles. Wearing tight, restrictive clothing also helps to prevent costumes from catching on fire, according to Michelle Starkey, a Fire Safety Specialist at the Ontario Fire Department in Ontario, California.

Starkey also points out that using extension cords to power outdoor lights and lawn decorations can be dangerous. Following the popularity of these outdoor decorations at Christmas, consumers are now purchasing Halloween-themed outdoor lights and decorations. The excessive use of extension cords to power them can cause electrical fires, and if the cords are covered by rugs or mats, they may heat up and start a fire.

Other Halloween safety suggestions from the NFPA include giving children lightweight flashlights, having adult supervision over children as they trick-or-treat, and making sure they know how to stop-drop-and-roll in the event that their costumes catch on fire. Parents should instruct children that are attending Halloween parties to know where all of the exits are at the location of the party in case of an emergency. They also advise that consumers use extreme caution when decorating their homes using hay bales, corn stalk and crepe paper, as these are highly flammable materials and should be kept away from any heat source. All decorations should be kept clear of doors or windows so that they do not obstruct exits in the event of an emergency.

For these tips and other information regarding Halloween safety, please visit the NFPA website.