Halloween Safety

jack-o-lantern Before kids hit the streets this Halloween, check over costumes, décor and trick-or-treating plans for fire safety!

Grown-ups: here’s what we ask you to do to protect your own and others’ kids:

Consider a battery-operated or other artificial flame in your jack-o'-lantern.
If you do choose a flame-lit pumpkin, use a small candle like a tea-light in a protective holder, and keep it well away from landings, stairs and doorsteps where costumes can brush against the flame.
Keep a light on on your porch if you are giving out candy, and ensure stairs and walkways can be clearly seen and have no trip hazards.
Indoors, protect your home and family by placing any candles or candlelit jack-o'-lanterns on sturdy tables, away from curtains and other flammable objects. Never leave them unattended. Always keep candles, matches and lighters out of the reach of children.
Check your candlelit jack-o'-lanterns regularly to ensure the flame remains low and isn’t burning the pumpkin or nearby materials.

Not all adults follow our advice to keep lit pumpkins in a safe location, so prepare your kids:

Warn your family to steer clear of any lit-up décor, whether it appears to have an open flame or not.
Avoid costumes with long hems, baggy pants, long flowy sleeves or other parts that drag and could come into contact with flame or create a trip hazard. Make sure that face coverings don’t limit vision, and check that kids can see where they put their feet.
Don't send children out alone, but always with an adult or in a group. Make sure that children know how to call 9-1-1 if they experience an emergency.
Teach children what to do should their clothing catch fire:

​​​​​​Halloween Safety