Halloween is a time for spooky fun, but it’s also one of the busiest nights of the year for fire-related incidents at home. Between flickering candles, glowing pumpkins, decorative lights and costumes, it’s easy to overlook simple precautions that can make all the difference. At Twenty4 Fire and Security, we want everyone to enjoy a safe and scare-free night… so here are a few fire safety tips to keep in mind.
1. Think Twice About Candles in Pumpkins
Carved pumpkins look fantastic glowing in the dark, but open flames can easily cause fires if placed too close to curtains, doorsteps or other decorations. Instead of real candles, use battery-operated LED lights or tea lights…they look just as effective without the risk.
2. Be Careful with Plug-In Lights
Many people decorate their homes with Halloween string lights or inflatables. Always check that your lights are in good condition, with no frayed wires or cracked plugs, and never overload extension leads. When heading to bed or leaving the house, switch everything off at the socket.
3. Keep Decorations Away from Heat Sources
Paper ghosts, plastic cobwebs and hanging decorations can all catch fire easily. Keep them well away from candles, heaters, lamps or fireplaces. If you’re using an electric heater, make sure it has plenty of space around it — at least one metre clear.
4. Choose Fire-Resistant Decorations and Costumes
If you’re buying new decorations or costumes, look for items that are labelled as flame-retardant or meet UK fire safety standards. This is especially important for children’s costumes, which can ignite quickly if exposed to an open flame.
5. Have a Fire Plan
It’s always wise to be prepared. Make sure your smoke alarms are working, and that everyone in your home knows how to get out quickly in an emergency.
