Overview
- The service is asking households to replace real candles with battery-powered or LED lights for pumpkins and window displays.
- Officials report yearly injuries when candles or fireworks ignite costumes or hair, with items like plastic capes and bin liners flagged as high risk.
- The National Fire Chiefs' Council is pressing for children’s fancy dress to be regulated as clothing to require flame resistance rather than as toys.
- Guidance includes checking for a CE mark, buying from reputable retailers, layering regular clothes under costumes, and keeping children away from open flames.
- Ahead of Bonfire Night, residents are being directed to the Fireworks Code available on the Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service website.