Consumer Tips

Halloween Fire Safety Tips

MetLife YourLife Blog

October 18, 2019

Candy Safety 
The safest option is to use battery-operated LED lights or glow sticks. However, if you use real candles:

• Keep candles at least 1 foot away from anything flammable, including decorations, curtains, and Halloween costumes.
• Make sure candles and pumpkins with candles, as well as matches and lighters, are out of reach for children and pets.
• Use long-stem matches or a utility lighter to light candles inside carved pumpkins.
• Never leave unattended candles near decorations.

Decorating Safety 

• Keep all exits and pathways clear of decorations, and remove obstacles from your lawn, steps, or porch so trick-or-treaters can get to your door safely and easily.
• Set up decorations far away from open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs and space heaters.
• Opt for battery-operated or electric decorations instead of candles to light up your yard and windows.
• Never overload extension cords.
• Make sure your fire extinguisher is accessible and working.

Costume Safety 
When shopping for costumes, look for:

• Costumes that don’t have billowing fabric or pieces that trail behind your child, such as capes. Costumes should fit properly and not be too loose or baggy.
• Flame-resistant fabrics and accessories such as those made from polyester or nylon.

Before you venture out trick-or-treating, teach your children to steer clear of candles and to “stop, drop, and roll” in the rare event a costume catches fire.

L1018509513[exp0921][All States][DC]