Halloween’s creeping closer, and Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service are sounding the alarm. They’re urging everyone to ditch traditional candles and switch to battery-powered tealights when lighting pumpkins this spooky season.
Dump the Naked Flames!
Sure, candles look atmospheric, but they’re a ticking time bomb. One in eight house fires start with naked flames — like candles, matches, or cigarettes. Halloween is one of the most dangerous times for these blazes.
“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,” warns Kate Saint, Head of Prevention at Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue.
Fancy Dress Could Spell Disaster
Think your Halloween outfit is risk-free? Think again. Fancy dress costumes are classed as toys, not clothes, so they aren’t held to strict fire safety standards. That means many are more flammable than you realise.
- Spot the Safety Marks: Always check for the UKCA or CE mark on your costume’s packaging.
- No Mark? No Thanks: Avoid costumes without these marks— they might break safety rules.
Top Tricks To Avoid Fire Treats
- Keep costumes well clear of flames.
- Use battery-powered candles or glow sticks instead of real candles.
- Wear regular clothes underneath costumes for extra protection.
- Teach kids “stop, drop, and roll” – practice until they know it by heart.
- Add reflective tape or glow sticks on costumes to stay visible in the dark.
The Fire Service has even released a shocking video showing just how fast costumes can ignite – a must-watch for parents and kids alike.
Stay safe this Halloween! Get all the advice you need at Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue’s Halloween Safety Guide.
