MAWWFRS Urges Communities to Celebrate Halloween and Bonfire Night Safely

Halloween – Frightening Fun Without the Risks!

Halloween is a favourite time of year for many people, bringing fancy dress costumes, pumpkin carving, spooky decorations and trick-or-treating. However, these celebrations can also introduce additional fire risks in and around the home.

The Service is encouraging residents to think carefully about costume and decoration safety before celebrating.

• Fancy dress costumes should carry the new British kite mark UKCA or CE mark and be purchased from reputable retailers. Although costumes sold in the UK must meet safety standards, they can still catch fire if exposed to naked flames, candles or other sources of heat.
• Rather than placing a naked flame inside a carved pumpkin, use battery-operated LED candles, which provide the same spooky effect without the fire hazard.
• Keep hallways, doorways and escape routes clear of decorations. During Halloween, homes can quickly become cluttered with props, pumpkins and displays, potentially obstructing exits in an emergency.

Aled Griffiths, Head of Community Safety at MAWWFRS, said:

“Halloween can be great fun for families and communities, but it is important to remember the increased fire risks that can come with the celebrations. Naked flames in pumpkins, candles around decorations and unsuitable costumes can all contribute to potentially dangerous situations.

Simple precautions such as choosing LED candles, checking costumes meet safety standards, remembering to Stop, Drop and Roll if clothing catches fire, and ensuring escape routes remain clear can dramatically reduce the risk of fire and help everyone have a safe and enjoyable Halloween.”

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Bonfire Night – Celebrate Safely and Responsibly

Bonfire Night remains one of the busiest periods of the year for emergency services, with incidents relating to bonfires, fireworks and antisocial behaviour placing significant demand on our resources.

Each year, MAWWFRS encounter dangerous bonfires built using unsuitable materials, including items that can release toxic fumes, explode when heated or pose serious risks to spectators and surrounding communities. Poorly managed bonfires can also have a damaging impact on the environment.

Throughout the bonfire season, the Service’s Community Safety and Arson Reduction teams will continue to work alongside the police and local authority partners to help reduce risks and keep communities safe.

Carl Williams, Arson Reduction Manager at MAWWFRS, said:

“This time of year can bring fun and entertainment for all the family. It does, however, come with some serious dangers associated with bonfires and fireworks.

“The safest way to enjoy fireworks is by attending an organised public display where trained professionals manage the event. If you choose to use fireworks yourself, always follow the guidance provided and ensure you are doing so safely and legally.”

We are also reminding anyone planning to use fireworks to purchase them only from reputable retailers, carefully read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions, follow the RoSPA Firework Code, and store them safely in their original packaging away from heat sources and out of reach of children.

We’re Working Together to Keep Our Communities Safe

Local police officers and PCSOs will be carrying out patrols and working closely with Fire and Rescue Service personnel throughout the Halloween and Bonfire Night period.

It’s illegal to throw, cast or set off fireworks in streets or public places, and it is also an offence for anyone under the age of 18 to possess fireworks, other than sparklers, in a public place.

MAWWFRS is encouraging everyone to enjoy the festivities safely and responsibly. By taking simple precautions, respecting neighbours, considering the welfare of pets and vulnerable members of the community, and supporting organised events where possible, we can all play our part in ensuring this exciting time of year remains safe, enjoyable and memorable for the right reasons.

Together with our partners in the police and local authorities, we wish everyone a happy, safe and responsible Halloween and Bonfire Night.

For more information on Halloween and Bonfire Night safety, including resources for children and young people, visit our website.