MERSEYSIDE Fire and Rescue Service has issued safety tips to ensure a hazard-free Halloween.

The service is urging families to be cautious, particularly with costumes and decorations, to avoid any fire-related incidents.

They have warned that many Halloween and fancy dress costumes are categorised as toys, meaning they could ignite and burn rapidly, posing a substantial risk to children.

Check costumes

Parents are urged to check costumes for a UKCA or CE mark, which indicates they meet the necessary safety standards.

The service also recommends using LED battery-operated candles instead of regular wax ones.

These do not have a flame, therefore cannot start a fire, and are typically cheaper than wax candles.

They make for equally effective Halloween decorations.

Halloween decorations should be placed away from naked flames, like wax candles, or heat sources, such as radiators.

They should not obstruct any escape routes, such as front or back doors.

Drafts from open windows could also knock over candles.

The service advises taking care when lighting Halloween pumpkins, or alternatively using a LED battery-powered tealight.

If using a real flame, ensure any loose clothing is a safe distance from the pumpkin, especially when moving them around the house.

A thorough check of regular wax candles is essential before leaving the room, going to sleep, or heading out for trick-or-treating.

Children and pets should be kept away from all heat sources, including sparklers, which can burn at up to 2,000 degrees.

The service also stresses the importance of having a working smoke alarm on each level of the home, with additional alarms in rooms with more electrical appliances or near sleeping areas.

Real fire risks

MFRS group manager Mark Sopp said: "Halloween can be great fun, but there can also be real fire risks, so it’s important to be aware and take action to avoid any incidents.

"We’re asking our Merseyside community to take extra care when choosing costumes, decorating their homes, and celebrating Halloween with their family and friends."

For fire safety advice or if you do not have working smoke alarms in your property, call Fire Service Direct on 0800 731 5958.

Additional safety tips can be found on Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service's social media platforms and website.