The warning comes as Halloween approaches, with costumes, decorations and props widely available from shops and online retailers. Children’s costumes are legally classed as toys and should carry a CE or UKCA mark, indicating that they meet the relevant safety requirements. Labels should also include the manufacturer’s details and appropriate age warnings.
Where available, residents should look for labelling stating, “This garment has undergone additional safety testing for flammability”.
When shopping online, residents should buy from reputable sellers, check reviews carefully and be wary of products that provide little safety information or no manufacturer details.
Parents are also reminded to be vigilant and be aware of the potential risks linked with fancy dress costumes and naked flames. Children should be kept away from naked flames such as candles, sparklers and bonfires, particularly when wearing flammable items such as fake beards and wigs.
Putting normal clothing underneath a costume can provide an additional layer between the costume and the skin, while making sure costumes fit properly can help prevent trips, slips and falls.
“ Halloween is always a fun time for families, with children dressing up and enjoying the celebrations.
Councillor Ian Benton, Portfolio Holder for Street Scene and Enforcement at Walsall Council
We want to make sure that everyone can enjoy themselves safely, so a quick check of costumes, props and decorations before they are used can help avoid any unwanted surprises, particularly when it comes to fire safety.
Enjoy the celebrations, stay safe and, if you come across a product you think may be unsafe, please report it to our Trading Standards team. “
Other safety tips include ensuring button batteries in toys and decorations are securely fastened in battery compartments, checking that masks allow clear vision and can be removed easily, and adding visible reflective tape to outerwear, costumes and props to help children be seen in the dark.
Residents who wish to report concerns about faulty or dangerous goods can contact Walsall Council’s Trading Standards team by emailing tradingstandards@walsall.gov.uk.
For advice on consumer protection issues, please contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.
