TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis alerts Floridians to the top four fire safety tips to protect families from fire-related accidents this Halloween. The National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) reports decorations are the first thing to ignite in 800 reported home fires each year and more than one-third of these fires are started by candles.
 
CFO and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis said, “Halloween is a fun time to share with family and friends but can quickly turn into tragedy because of fire-related accidents. Look for costumes that are fire-resistant, keep decorations away from open flames, and consider using glow sticks or flameless candles. Following a few easy fire safety tips like these can ensure that your Halloween remains free from danger.”
 
4 Halloween Fire Safety Tips
 
1. Consider alternatives to open flames. Consider using battery-operated candles or glow sticks inside your jack-o-lanterns this year. This will help reduce the risk of fire.
2. Buy safe costumes. When choosing costumes, wigs and accessories check that they are fire-resistant. Teach children to stay away from open flames while in costume and avoid costumes with long, trailing fabric.
3. Ensure working smoke alarms. Before a Halloween party, make sure all smoke alarms and fire extinguishers are in working condition.
4. Don’t let decorations ruin the day. Dried flowers, cornstalks, and candy wrappers can catch fire easily. Keep all decoration and candy wrappers away from open flames and other heat sources like heaters and light bulbs and keep all exits clear of decorations in case of emergency.