Overview
- Regional brigades in Dorset, Wiltshire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire urged families to avoid naked flames and use battery-powered or LED lights in pumpkins and decorations.
- Parents were told to check shop-bought outfits for EN71-2 compliance and a UKCA or CE mark, buy from reputable retailers, and look for British Retail Consortium additional flammability testing labels.
- Officials advised layering clothing under costumes, keeping children away from ignition sources, and teaching stop, drop and roll with hands over the face.
- The National Fire Chiefs' Council reiterated its call to reclassify children's fancy dress as clothing rather than toys so stricter flammability standards would apply.
- With Bonfire Night approaching, services also directed the public to the Fireworks Code and broader guidance on safe fireworks use.