SPRINGFIELD – Fall and Halloween decorations can add an increased fire danger to your home if you don’t keep fire safety in mind. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, an estimated 9,200 fires were reported to fire departments in the United States over a 3-day period on average around Halloween. The National Fire Protection Association reports that decorations were the first thing to ignite in roughly 800 reported home fires each year. More than two of every five of these fires occurred because the decorations were too close to a heat source, such as a candle or hot equipment.
“Halloween is an exciting time for many and keeping fire safety in mind is just as important as picking out that perfect costume. Introducing dried vegetation and other decorations into our homes increases the risk for an accidental fire,” said Acting Illinois State Fire Marshal Dale Simpson.
Taking a few simple steps will help to create a spooky season that doesn’t turn into a scary situation.
• Use a battery-operated candle or glow stick in jack-o-lanterns.
• When choosing costumes, avoid long trailing fabric.
• If your children are wearing a costume mask, make sure the eye holes are large enough so the child can see out.
• Teach children to stay away from open flames, including jack-o-lanterns with candles in them.
• Be sure children know how to stop, drop, and roll if their clothing catches fire.
• Dried flowers, cornstalks, and crepe paper catch fire easily. Keep all decorations away from open flames and other heat sources like light bulbs and heaters.
• Provide children with flashlights to carry for lighting or glow sticks as part of their costume.
• Remember to keep exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes.
• Make sure all smoke alarms are working.
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