• Buy only costumes, fabric and accessories labeled flame-resistant or flame-retardant made with material that won't easily ignite if exposed to heat or flame and will extinguish more readily. 
• Avoid baggy, billowing or oversized costumes that are dangerous around lit candles or open flames. 
• Avoid masks and over-the-head costumes which can impede vision or make removal difficult in the event of fire; use face paint or make-up instead. 
• Teach children to "Stop, Drop and Roll" if their clothing catches fire to smother spreading flames. Have them practice stopping immediately, dropping to the ground, covering their face with hands, and rolling over and over to put the flames out. 
• Use only decorative lights that have been tested and certified for safety. Check lights, new or old, for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections. Discard damaged sets. 
• Don't overload electrical outlets or extension cords with holiday lighting or special effects. 
• Make sure to have working smoke alarms in the home and set up a home fire escape route. 
• Remember to keep exits clear of decorations, ensuring nothing blocks escape routes.

Also, keeping children safe while trick-or-treating is one of greatest concerns to Fire/EMS department personnel. Parents should warn their children not to eat any of their treats before they get home. All candy should be inspected to assure that it is safely sealed and has not been tampered with. Fruit should be sliced into small pieces and checked for foreign objects. Keep small pieces of candy away from infants and very small children, as they can easily become lodged in the throat and cause choking.

The Bureau of Fire Services wishes all a happy, fire-safe Halloween. Visit the Bureau of Fire Services website at www.michigan.gov/bfsfor more fire safety information.

Read more releases from the Michigan Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth