FIRE WARNING ON HALLOWEEN COSTUMES
Parents are being warned about the potential fire risk often presented by children’s fancy dress costumes.
As Halloween approaches, Croydon council’s trading standards team are advising parents that even costumes which comply with toy safety regulations can still catch fire through the ‘maximum allowable rate’ at which the flame can spread is defined.
“We would encourage parents to be vigilant and aware of the potential risks with fancy dress costumes and fire or naked flames” said Cllr Kate Lymer.
“The simple advice is to keep children away from candles and the like or use an LED equivalent.
“Whilst this advice always applies, as Halloween is approaching and more children may wear fancy dress costumes, including wigs and masks, this is a timely reminder.
“Only buy costumes labelled with a ‘CE’ – and please report retailers to us if you come across examples where a costume does not have this important safety mark” added Cllr Lymer, who is Croydon’s executive councillor for public protection and safety.
Fancy dress costumes must be labelled with a ‘CE’ which is a declaration by the manufacturer that they comply with the toy safety regulations. Consumers are warned to only purchase children’s costumes with this mark and read and follow the instructions and safety information carefully.
Childrens’ fancy dress costumes without the CE marking for sale in the borough can be reported through the national Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 03454 04 05 06. (Source: Croydon council press release)