Halloween candle safety

Fire risks around halloween

We want everyone to enjoy a safe and spooky Halloween. Every year many adults and children are injured when lit candles come into contact with costumes and wigs.

Battery operated candles

Battery operated candles are the safest way to light up scary things at Halloween. They last longer and provide a glow without any wax mess to clean up. And as they don't have a real flame, they are easier and safer to place.

When using real candles

Make sure pumpkins, candles and other lights are placed well away from anything that can burn.

Don’t put them too close to paths where ‘trick or treaters’ will walk, as their flowing costumes might catch fire.

What to do if their clothing catches fire

It is important that children know what to do if their clothing is set alight. You can make a game of teaching your children to “Stop, drop, cover and roll” if their costume does catch light.

This means having them practice:

1. Stopping still
2. Dropping to the ground
3. Covering their face with hands
4. Rolling over and over to put the flames out

Fire safety when choosing or making a costume

When choosing or making a costume, avoid billowing or long trailing fabric. Make sure any fabric is flame retardant.

Our top tips for Halloween candle safety

1. Use a torch or battery candles in pumpkins rather than candles.
2. Keep an eye on children at all times when around lit candles.
3. Teach children how to stop, drop and roll if their clothing catches fire
4. Keep flowing items like fake hair and capes away from candle and other flames
5. If your child is wearing a mask, make sure the eye holes are large enough so they can see clearly.
6. Place candles, pumpkins or any flame out of way of trick-or-treaters, doorways and paths.
7. Keep overhanging decorations away from candles.
8. Keep pets safely away from any lit flames.