Fire marshal urges caution with Halloween costumes, decorations

Personal injury, fires can be avoided by following safety tips    

[OCT. 29, 2005]  SPRINGFIELD -- Halloween decorations adorn many houses in late October as people prepare for flocks of costumed trick-or-treaters in search of candy. To ensure a fun and safe time is enjoyed by all, the Office of the State Fire Marshal is urging everyone to observe the holiday with caution to avoid fires that can cause injuries and property damage.

According to the National Fire Prevention Association, decorations for Halloween special events cause an estimated 1,100 reported home structure fires per year, with the majority involving candles as the heat source. Such fires cause an average of six deaths and $16 million in property damage per year in the United States.

Keep your Halloween celebration safe with the following safety tips:

• Purchase only costumes, wigs and props labeled flame-resistant or flame-retardant. When creating a costume, choose material that won't easily ignite if it comes in contact with heat or flames.

• Keep highly flammable decorations -- such as dried flowers, cornstalks and crepe paper -- away from all open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters.

• Use flashlights as alternatives to candles or torchlights when decorating or for trick-or-treaters.

• Use flashlights when illuminating jack-o'-lanterns. If using candles to illuminate jack-o'-lanterns, place pumpkins well away from anything that can burn, including doorsteps, walkways and yards.

• Remember to keep exits clear of decorations, ensuring nothing blocks escape routes.

• Instruct children to stay away from open flames or other heat sources. Be sure children know how to "stop, drop and roll" in the event their clothing catches fire. "Stop, drop and roll" means to stop immediately; drop to the ground, covering your face with your hands; and roll over and over to extinguish flames.

• Provide children with lightweight flashlights to carry for lighting or as part of their costume.

For more fire safety information, visit www.state.il.us/osfm or call [phone].

[News release from the Office of the State Fire Marshal]