County Durham’s parents are being urged to ensure their kids stay safe so they can enjoy a spooktacular Halloween.

Plenty of kids – as well as one or two adults – will be keen to have fun and dress up for the night as witches, ghosts and ghouls. With this in mind, Durham County Council’s trading standards team has some advice regarding costumes and other aspects of Halloween safety.

Environment and health protection manager, Michael Yeadon, said, “We want families to have a fun and safe time trick-and-treating or attending parties.”

“Taking a little time and thought to avoid potential injuries, which could have life-changing effects, is in everyone’s interest.”

“So please consider safety when buying costumes for you or your children – shop at reputable retailers, buy items that fit properly and that you can easily see and breathe in, follow the labelling advice, and keep outfits away from naked flames.”

Halloween costumes 1
Ensure all Halloween costumes fit properly and are easy to see and breathe in

To stay SAFE this Halloween, please remember the following tips:

  • See that costumes fit properly, thereby reducing the likelihood of trips or falls.
  • Always check that costumes come with a CE mark, instructions and safety information.
  • Flames should be kept away from people and costumes. Consider using LED lights.
  • Ensure any masks or hoods don’t stop kids from seeing or breathing.

You can also minimise the risk of problems and accidents by taking CARE:

  • Children should always be supervised by a suitable adult.
  • Always wear appropriate footwear.
  • Reflective strips worn on clothing or carrying a torch will mean children can be seen in the dark.
  • Ensure scarves or ties do not present a danger, especially to younger children, of getting snagged or becoming a choking hazard.

If you would like to learn more about consumer safety issues, please visit www.durham.gov.uk/tradingstandards or telephone the Citizens’ Advice consumer helpline on 03454 04 05 06.


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DavidSunderland
David writes about local news, thought provoking stories, and yearns to capture the community spirit with a unique writing style.

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