Safety tips for Halloween

• When shopping for costumes and costume accessories for Halloween, make sure you check that they have the CE mark before you buy. Certain products- this includes toys– sold in the EU, must comply with specific safety regulations. Toys must carry the CE mark which shows that they meet the requirements of the relevant safety legislation and the product has undergone safety testing in the design and manufacture process
• Children’s costumes are classified as toys so you should look for the CE mark when you are buying them. All masks, wigs and other similar Halloween costume accessories should also have a visible CE mark
• Swords, devil forks and other costume accessories should be made of soft flexible material
• If you are buying props for your child’s costume these may not be classified as toys and therefore may not be safe for your child
• Make sure the props and toys your child is using this Halloween are suitable. Some children, particularly those under the age of three, may be more vulnerable, particularly to choking due to the presence of small detachable parts and some props may be unsuitable for them
• Costumes should fit properly to prevent trips and falls. Avoid items such as oversized shoes, high heels, long dresses and long capes
• Ensure your child is wearing bright or light coloured clothing where possible when trick-or-treating to ensure they are visible to motorists or place strips of reflective tape on the back and front of their costumes, so that drivers can see them better
• Novelty Halloween lights, similar to Christmas lights, are very popular at this time of year. All electrical products sold in the EU must meet the requirements of all safety legislation, check they have a visible CE mark and have full contact details of the manufacturer and importer
• Avoid lighting candles for Halloween around your home as this will ensure your child will be safe in their costume and won’t be at risk of catching fire. Opt for battery-operated candles instead of lit ones for pumpkins and keep tealights in glass jars
• Remember, fireworks are illegal, as well as dangerous

We have lots more information on general product safety, including toys and children’s clothes.