Halloween

How to make sure your celebrations are not truly terrifying

Halloween is a great chance for children and adults to let their hair down and celebrate.

However, it also has its dangers. Accidents involving lighted candles which have ignited flammable costumes and hair are common. Plastic capes and bin liners, often used as costumes, are also fire risks.

Homemade Jack-O-Lanterns made from hollowed pumpkins and candles are also hazardous. If the candle tips over, it could set light to materials such as costumes, curtains, clothes, and furniture, and start a serious fire.

Firefighters want residents in Cambridgeshire to have fun this Halloween, but they also want people to be aware of the dangers of using candles and to be vigilant when using them.

To enjoy a ghoulish night of satire, instead of a hellish night of fire, take note of the following safety advice:

How to use candles safely

• Never leave candles unattended or go to sleep while they are lit 
• Leave plenty of space above and around the candle and its holder 
• Place candles in a draught-free area away from curtains, furniture and other flammable surfaces 
• Always use a proper candle-holder and fit the candle in firmly. Make sure it is put on a surface that is flat and stable - this is particularly important when using a candle inside a Jack-O-Lantern. 
• Always use a heat-resistant surface to place the candle holder on - e.g. a ceramic plate, especially for night-light candles 
• Never place candles directly on televisions or other polished surfaces 
• Keep candles out of reach of children and pets 
• Never attempt to move a candle once it is lit 
• Always use a candle-snuffer, or a metal spoon to extinguish the candle and allow cooling before moving it 
• A good alternative to candles are tea lights which you can buy from garden centres, which have a small battery fitted. These are just as effective at creating an atmosphere, but much safer than a candle.

Choosing the right candle for your Jack-O-Lantern

• Oil-burning, liquid candles last longer, but these do not extinguish themselves, so it is crucial that these are not left unattended. 
• Votive candles placed in clear, heat-proof holders are safer and also have a longer life span than traditional candles, with white candles giving off the most light. 
• There are safer alternatives to candles, such as glo-sticks or battery operated tea lights.
• If you do nothing else to protect your home and your family, ensure you fit a smoke alarm that has the kite mark and conforms to British Standard 5446 (Part 1). Test the smoke alarm at least once a week by pressing the test button and know the life span of your battery - mark your calendar as a reminder to replace it.

Halloween advice from Cambridgeshire Constabulary