Halloween and Bonfire Night safety tips

Autumn’s festivities are nearly upon us so it's the ideal time to remind yourself and your family about how to stay safe. Despite most people enjoying Halloween and Bonfire Night safely there are some risks and accidents that could potentially happen if you're not careful. Read these tips provided by our home insurance provider RSA, below, to help you stay safe in your home and while you’re out and about this autumn.

Halloween Safety

Candles

• ALWAYS keep candles out of reach of pets and children.
• ALWAYS use a suitable heat resistant container and place naked flames on a stable surface.
• ALWAYS check candles are properly extinguished.
• NEVER place candles near curtains, fabrics or furniture and keep them away from draughts.
• NEVER place candles close together, allow at least 10cm between them.
• NEVER leave candles unattended.

Halloween costumes

• ALWAYS make sure Halloween costumes and masks are certified to be flame-resistant and if making costumes at home ensure you don’t use flammable materials.
• REMIND kids if their clothing catches fire to “stop, drop and roll” (stop what they’re doing, drop to the ground and roll around to extinguish the flames.)

Pumpkins

Here are some tips for kids if you plan to create a spooky pumpkin for your party or to display in your window. Adults should always help children with this process. 

1. Draw your pattern on your pumpkin first.
2. Use a specially designed pumpkin tool, not a sharp knife.
3. Carve your pumpkin in a well-lit area on a flat surface.
4. Use a battery operated tealight instead of a real flame.

Bonfire night safety

• ALWAYS build bonfires well away from your house, shed, fences and trees.
• ALWAYS keep a bucket of water or hose nearby in case of an emergency.
• NEVER use petrol or any flammable liquid to start a bonfire and don’t burn dangerous items such as aerosol cans or batteries.
• NEVER leave the bonfire unattended and keep children and pets at a safe distance.

Fireworks

• ALWAYS keep fireworks in a closed box and follow the instructions carefully.
• ALWAYS respect your neighbours – let them know you’re having a party and don’t let off fireworks late at night.
• ALWAYS light fireworks at arm’s length using a taper and stand well back.
• ALWAYS take care with sparklers and never give them to children under five. Even when they’ve gone out they’re still extremely hot so have a bucket of water nearby for safe disposal.
• NEVER go back to a lit firework. Even if it’s not fired, it could still explode.
• NEVER throw fireworks and don’t put them in your pockets.
• NEVER drink alcohol if handling fireworks.