As Halloween approaches, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and local fire departments are sharing top tips to ensure a fun and safe night for families.

costume safety

When choosing costumes, avoid long, hanging fabrics that can easily catch fire. If a mask is part of the costume, make sure it has eye holes large enough to provide clear vision. Give kids flashlights or glow sticks as part of their costumes to increase visibility and reduce the need for open flames.

Decorating safely

Decorations such as dried flowers, cornstalks, and crepe paper can quickly catch fire. Keep all decorations away from open flames and heat sources such as light bulbs. Use battery-powered candles or glow sticks in jack-o-lanterns. If you use real candles, watch them closely and place lit pumpkins outside of high-traffic areas such as doorways, walkways and gardens to prevent accidents.

Fire safety precautions at home

Clear all decorating exits to ensure escape routes are unobstructed. Verify that all smoke alarms in the home are working properly. For families hosting Halloween parties, make sure kids know more than one way to leave the house in case of an emergency.

Teaching children fire safety

Remind children to stay away from open flames, including candles in jack-o-lanterns. In the event of a clothing fire, teach them the “stop, drop, and roll” technique: stop moving, drop to the ground, cover your face with your hands, and roll over repeatedly to extinguish the flames.

These precautions can help you have a safe Halloween. For more safety resources, visit the NFPA Public Education Section online or contact your local fire department, such as the Auburn Fire Department, at (315) 253-4031.

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