October 29, 2013 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (SH2013-35) FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION R. Steve Huffman Public Information Officer (251) 208-2857/Fax: (251) 208-2861 E-Mail: huffman@cityofmobile.org HALLOWEEN FIRE SAFETY Halloween is a fun holiday but it’s also an important time to practice fire safety. The occurrence of fire increases around Halloween due to arson and the use of candles as decorations. Follow these tips for a happy and fire-safe Halloween: • If you buy a costume, make sure the label says “Flame Resistant.” Flame Resistant means the costume will be hard to catch on fire and if it does, the fire will go out fast. • If you make a costume, try not to make one that is big and baggy so that the material doesn’t touch candles or other flames. Use flame-resistant fabrics, such as polyester and nylon. These materials will resist burning if exposed to a flame. • Tell kids to stay away from candles and jack-o'-lanterns that may be on steps and porches. Their costumes could catch fire if they get too close. • Kids should never carry candles when they are trick-or-treating. Always use a flashlight, flameless candle, or light stick. • Tell kids to let you know right away if they see other kids playing with matches or lighters. • Don’t use candles for decorations. They’re dangerous, especially when left unattended. • Use only decorative lights tested for safety by a recognized testing laboratory. Check lights for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections. Throw away damaged sets. Don't overload extension cords. • Check the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s website for the latest on Halloween-related consumer product recalls. • If you have a Halloween party, check for cigarettes under furniture cushions and in areas where people were smoking before you go to bed. • Remove any materials around your home or property, such as garbage or excess vegetation, which an arsonist could use to start a fire. • Young children should always be accompanied by an adult or an older, responsible child. All children should WALK, not run from house to house and use the sidewalk if available, rather than walk in the street. Children should be cautioned against running out from between parked cars, or across lawns and yards where ornaments and/or furniture present dangers. • Children should go only to homes where the residents are known and have outside lights on as a sign of welcome. • Children should not enter homes or apartments unless they are accompanied by an adult. • People expecting trick-or-treaters should remove anything that could be an obstacle from lawns, steps and porches. Candlelit jack-o'-lanterns should be kept away from landings and doorsteps where costumes could brush against the flame. Indoor jack-o'-lanterns should be kept away from curtains, decorations, and other furnishings that could be ignited. ###