Halloween Fire Safety: Top Hazards and Prevention Tips to Stay Safe

By Gerald Valentine October 23, 2024Fire Safety

As Halloween approaches, it’s important to remember that the fun and festive decorations can also introduce hidden fire risks. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), an average of 860 home fires occur each year in the U.S. during Halloween, causing approximately $13 million in property damage NFPA.

To help you keep your home safe, here’s a list of common Halloween fire hazards and essential fire safety tips.

1. Jack-o’-Lantern Fire Risks and Safety Tips

Risk: Traditional candles inside jack-o’-lanterns can easily tip over or come into contact with flammable materials like costumes or dried leaves. Prevention: Opt for battery-operated LED lights or flameless candles for your jack-o’-lanterns. Not only are they safer, but they last longer, too!

• Fact: The NFPA reports that in 48 percent of fires involving decorations, the decoration was too close to a heat source such as candles or operating equipment NFPA.

2. Flammable Decorations

Risk: Decorations made of dried materials such as hay bales, cornstalks, or paper can easily catch fire if placed near open flames or faulty lighting. Prevention: Keep flammable decorations away from candles, heaters, and hot lights. Choose flame-resistant options when available, and make sure string lights are certified for safety.

• Fact: An estimated average of 790 home fires began when decorations (excluding Christmas trees) caught fire. These fires caused an annual average of 4 civilian fire deaths, 33 civilian fire injuries, and $14 million in direct property damage between 2017-2021 NFPA.

3. Overloaded Electrical Outlets

Risk: Using too many Halloween lights, fog machines, or sound systems in a single outlet can cause electrical overloads and spark fires. Prevention: Spread out electrical decorations across different outlets and circuits. Unplug decorations when not in use, especially overnight.

• Fact: Fire departments responded to an estimated average of 46,700 home fires involving electrical failure or malfunction each year in 2015–2019 NFPA.

4. Flammable Costumes

Risk: Long, flowing costumes or loose fabrics can catch fire if they come into contact with open flames, like those from jack-o’-lanterns or candles. Prevention: Choose flame-resistant costumes, especially for children, and avoid long, trailing fabric. Make sure costumes fit snugly to reduce the risk of catching fire.

• Fact: Since the introduction of the Flammable Fabrics Act, children’s costumes are required to meet flame resistance standards, but adult costumes don’t always adhere to the same rules federalregister.

5. Unattended Candles

Risk: Candles left in windows, on tables, or lining pathways can be easily knocked over by trick-or-treaters or pets, causing fires. Prevention: Use flameless candles for decoration. If you do use real candles, never leave them unattended and keep them out of high-traffic areas.

• Fact: In 2009-2013, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 9,300 home structure fires that were started by candles per year illinois.gov.

6. Faulty or Damaged Extension Cords

Risk: Old or damaged extension cords used for outdoor Halloween decorations can cause sparks and lead to electrical fires. Prevention: Always inspect your cords for damage before using them. Make sure to use outdoor-rated cords when decorating outside and replace frayed or worn cords immediately.

• Fact: Damaged extension cords contribute to approximately 3,300 home fires each year ESFI.

7. Cooking Fires During Halloween Parties

Risk: It’s easy to get distracted while cooking for a Halloween party, leading to kitchen fires. Prevention: Never leave cooking equipment unattended. Use slow cookers or prepare food in advance to minimize the risk of a fire during the festivities.

• Fact: Cooking equipment is the leading cause of home fires, responsible for 49% of all home fires Congress.gov.

Spooky Conclusions

By being aware of these Halloween fire hazards and taking proactive steps to prevent them, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for your family and guests. At Fire Shield Fire Protection, we’re committed to keeping you protected year-round. For more fire safety tips or to learn about our services, contact us today!