As Halloween approaches, it’s time to enjoy the spooky season with costumes, trick-or-treating, and fireworks. But amidst the fun, it’s important to prioritise health and safety, especially when it comes to fire hazards, costumes, and fireworks. At Turnstone, we’re committed to keeping safety at the forefront of every celebration. Here are some practical tips to ensure you have a safe and fun Halloween.
Fire hazards are common during Halloween, with candles, lanterns, and fireworks playing a big part in celebrations. It’s essential to be mindful of these hazards, particularly in areas with large gatherings of people or around children.
Tips for Fire Safety:
- Choose LED lights over candles for your pumpkins or lanterns. These lights are safer, and there’s no risk of an open flame getting out of control.
- Keep flammable materials away from open flames. This includes decorations, paper props, and costumes. Ensure these items are kept at a safe distance from any heat source.
- Always have a fire extinguisher handy and know how to use it. If you’re hosting a party or setting up outside decorations, having an extinguisher nearby can help prevent small fires from escalating.
Halloween often involves fireworks and sparklers, adding to the excitement. However, these can be dangerous if not handled properly. Always follow safety guidelines to avoid injuries.
Tips for Fireworks and Sparklers:
- Ensure you have a valid fireworks licence if you want to buy, possess and use fireworks (except indoor fireworks and sparklers) in Northern Ireland.
- Use fireworks in open areas, away from houses, trees, or flammable materials. Always keep a bucket of water nearby for emergencies.
- Ensure fireworks are legal in your area and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. If unsure, leave it to the professionals and enjoy a local display instead.
- Supervise children when using sparklers. Sparklers can reach temperatures up to 1,200°C, so ensure they are handled carefully and disposed of in water once used.
- Wear gloves when using sparklers and never hand them to very young children. Keep them at arm’s length to avoid burns.
Costumes are a huge part of Halloween fun, but many are made from materials that can easily catch fire. This is particularly risky when near candles, bonfires, or fireworks.
Tips for Costume Safety:
- Look for flame-resistant costumes. Check the label when buying costumes to ensure they’re made from flame-retardant materials.
- Avoid flowing costumes and long capes that could come into contact with candles or fireworks.
- Opt for face paint over masks. Masks can obstruct vision, increasing the likelihood of accidents, especially in low-light environments.
At Turnstone, safety is a priority, whether it’s at work or during festive celebrations. We encourage everyone to be mindful of potential hazards and take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones. By following these Halloween safety tips, you can enjoy the thrills and chills of the season while keeping accidents and injuries at bay. Remember, a little caution goes a long way in ensuring a safe and spooky celebration! 🎃 Stay safe, have fun, and Happy Halloween from Team Turnstone!
